Bill > HB76

This bill establishes an independent Office of the Child and Family Ombudsman within the Department of Justice, tasked with protecting the interests and rights of children and families in Montana. The ombudsman, appointed by the Attorney General from a list provided by a diverse committee of professionals, will act independently of the Department of Public Health and Human Services. The ombudsman's duties include informing children of their legal rights, advocating for children, assisting families in obtaining information about their cases, reviewing and investigating complaints about child services, and examining circumstances surrounding child deaths. The office will have the power to inspect department records and request information from other entities involved in child protection, while adhering to confidentiality laws. This bill also amends existing law to allow the ombudsman access to child abuse and neglect records, and it includes provisions for funding, codification, and a termination date of June 30, 2015.