Bill > SB76

This bill modifies the legal framework for the Office of the Child Advocate in New Hampshire, expanding and clarifying its definitions, responsibilities, and operational guidelines. The bill broadens the definition of "child" or "youth" to include individuals through a specific age and expands the office's scope to cover a wider range of children who have interacted with state agencies. Key provisions include giving the office expanded oversight capabilities for executive agencies serving children, allowing the Child Advocate to review and investigate agency policies, procedures, and practices, and providing the office with broader access to records and information across state agencies. The bill strengthens the office's ability to protect children's interests by allowing independent review of services, facilitating communication with children and families, and providing recommendations for systemic improvements. The bill also enhances confidentiality protections for the office's investigations and records, specifying that its findings are generally exempt from public disclosure and legal proceedings. Additionally, the bill modifies reporting requirements, mandating that an annual report be submitted by January 1st each year and made publicly available. The changes aim to improve the office's effectiveness in monitoring and advocating for children's welfare across state services.

Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=1018&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=SB76