Bill > A04392

This bill establishes an independent Office of the Child Advocate within the executive department to protect and promote the rights of children in state or local social services care. The child advocate, appointed by the governor and required to have at least five years of experience in child welfare, juvenile justice, or childhood behavioral health, will have broad responsibilities including examining and evaluating publicly funded programs serving children, investigating systemic issues across different service systems, and monitoring implementation of policies affecting children in state custody. The advocate must report to the governor and legislature at least twice per year, with detailed recommendations for improving child services. Key provisions include the ability to request information from state agencies, investigate service delivery problems, and recommend policy changes. The bill also establishes strong confidentiality protections, ensures that youth in juvenile facilities can communicate freely with the advocate, and protects individuals who cooperate with the office from retaliation. The office is designed to be an independent watchdog focused on improving outcomes for children in New York state who are involved with state agencies, with a particular emphasis on those in foster care, juvenile justice, child protective, and preventive service systems.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4392