Bill > HB1805

This bill establishes an independent Office of the Child Advocate within the Department of the Attorney General to provide oversight and evaluation of services provided to children and their families by various state agencies and other entities receiving state funds. This office will be headed by a Child Advocate, appointed by the legislature, who will have the power to investigate complaints, review agency records and procedures to ensure compliance with laws, and make recommendations for improvements, including proposed legislation. The bill also outlines the powers and duties of the Child Advocate, including the ability to subpoena witnesses and documents, and mandates that the office submit annual reports to the Governor, Legislature, and the public detailing its activities and findings. Furthermore, the bill amends existing statutes to include the Child Advocate in lists of officials who can visit correctional facilities and serve on child protective review panels, and also adds the Child Advocate to a list of former state officials who are restricted from certain lobbying activities for a period after leaving office. Finally, the bill appropriates funds for the establishment of the office and its staff, and specifies an effective date of July 1, 3000.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1805&year=2026