VA SB485

Directs the Virginia Commission on Youth and Office of the Children's Ombudsman to convene a work group studying whether to extend Ombudsman oversight to juveniles committed to the Department of Juvenile Justice

Work group membership includes representatives from the Department of Juvenile Justice, court service units, juvenile detention centers, juvenile court judges, attorneys, public defenders, guardians ad litem, and juvenile justice advocacy groups

Study must examine current Ombudsman functions and determine organizational changes needed for expanded oversight, including legislative amendments and additional staffing or resource requirements

Report with findings and recommendations due to the Governor and General Assembly by November 1, 2026