Bill > SB307

This bill establishes the Office of Child Ombud in New Mexico, creating an independent agency administratively attached to the administrative office of the courts to oversee and improve child welfare services. The bill creates a nine-member state child ombud selection committee to nominate candidates for the ombud position, who will be appointed by the governor for a six-year term. The ombud will have broad powers, including investigating complaints about child welfare services, operating a toll-free hotline, reviewing department policies, accessing records, and compiling an annual report detailing various child welfare metrics such as out-of-state placements, children removed from households, and systemic issues in child protection. The office is required to maintain confidentiality of records while ensuring staff are trained in child protection laws, investigative techniques, and trauma-informed care. The bill also amends existing confidentiality statutes to allow the ombud's office access to certain confidential records related to child welfare cases. To support the new office, the bill includes a $1 million appropriation for startup costs, with the office set to become operational on July 1, 2025. The primary goal is to provide independent oversight and improve the quality of services for children in the state's child welfare system.

Justice

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=307&year=25