NY A03233

Establishes an independent Office of the Child Advocate in the Executive Department to examine, evaluate, and report on systemic issues in publicly funded juvenile justice programs overseen by the Office of Children and Family Services.

Requires the Child Advocate, appointed by the Governor with Senate consent for a five-year term, to have at least five years of experience in child welfare, juvenile justice, or childhood behavioral health.

Grants the Child Advocate authority to conduct inspections of juvenile justice facilities without prior notice, access records and interview staff and youth, subpoena witnesses and records, and make periodic reports to the Governor and Legislature at least twice per year.

Protects all communications with the Child Advocate as confidential and prohibits retaliation against individuals who file complaints or cooperate with investigations; ensures youth in facilities have toll-free access to contact the office.

Repeals Subtitle B of Title 3 of Article 19-G of the executive law relating to the office of the ombudsman and takes effect April 1, 2011.