Bill
HD 5365
HD 5365 establishes an independent child protection agency to investigate abuse, oversee child welfare programs, and advocate for children's rights and wellbeing.
This proposed bill seeks to establish an independent state agency dedicated to protecting the rights and wellbeing of children. The agency would serve as an impartial watchdog, monitoring the performance of existing child welfare programs and investigating allegations of abuse or neglect within the system.
The key elements of HD 5365 include:
Creation of the "Office of the Child Advocate": The bill would create a new state agency called the Office of the Child Advocate (OCA), led by a Commissioner appointed by the Governor.
Investigative and Oversight Powers: The OCA would have the authority to investigate complaints of child abuse or neglect, oversee the operations of state child welfare agencies, and make policy recommendations to improve child protection services.
Independent, Transparent Reporting: The OCA would be required to publish annual reports evaluating the performance and accountability of the state's child welfare system. These reports would be available to the public.
Advocacy and Support Services: The OCA would provide support and legal representation to children involved in the child welfare system, as well as educate the public about children's rights and available resources.
The primary groups affected by this legislation would be:
If enacted, HD 5365 would take effect 90 days after passage. The Governor would be required to appoint the first Commissioner of the OCA within 60 days of the law's effective date. The OCA would then have 6 months to become fully operational and begin carrying out its oversight and advocacy functions.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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