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SR 35

REQUESTING THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO CONDUCT A STUDY ON THE COSTS AND BENEFITS OF CREATING AN OFFICE OF THE CHILD ADVOCATE.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 2 co-sponsors

Hawaii requests a study on establishing an independent Office of the Child Advocate to examine costs, benefits, and feasibility of creating child welfare oversight agency.

Offered.
#costs #departmentofhumanservices #fosterparents #independentofficeofthechildadvocate #report #study
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Bill Summary · SR 35

Legislative bill overview

SR 35 requests Hawaii's Department of Human Services to conduct a comprehensive study examining the fiscal and operational implications of establishing a dedicated Office of the Child Advocate. The study would evaluate costs, benefits, and implementation requirements for creating this new state office focused on protecting children's interests and rights.

Why is this important

Child advocacy offices serve as independent oversight mechanisms for vulnerable populations in the child welfare system, potentially improving outcomes in foster care, institutional settings, and juvenile justice. The findings would inform whether Hawaii should invest in a specialized agency to address gaps in current child protection structures, affecting thousands of children in state custody and the allocation of limited state resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost versus benefit trade-off: The study may reveal significant startup and operational costs for a new office during budget constraints, raising questions about whether existing agencies could be reformed more efficiently
  • Scope and authority questions: Disagreement may emerge over whether a child advocate should have investigative powers, access to confidential records, or enforcement mechanisms, versus purely advisory functions
  • Duplication of services: Stakeholders may debate whether existing child protective services, ombudsman offices, or legislative oversight already adequately address child welfare concerns, making a new office redundant

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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