Bill > HB1305

This bill establishes the Office of Child Advocate (OCA) within the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, creating a new independent agency focused on protecting and advancing children's interests. The Child Advocate will be appointed by the Governor for a four-year term, requiring professional experience in child advocacy, social work, or related fields, and must undergo specific training in areas like crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and confidentiality. The office's key responsibilities include advocating for children's health and safety, conducting facility visits, participating in child fatality review teams, receiving and investigating public complaints about child welfare programs, accessing confidential records (with restrictions), collaborating with various government agencies, and providing annual reports to state legislative committees. The Child Advocate will have the power to make recommendations for improving child welfare systems, serve as a resource for connecting children and families with support programs, and promote child welfare awareness. The bill also establishes strict confidentiality protocols for information gathered by the office and provides immunity for agencies sharing information. The office will function independently within the department, with the primary goal of supporting and enhancing child health, safety, and well-being programs across Pennsylvania. The legislation will take effect 60 days after its enactment.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1305