CHILD OMBUD ACT

SB 307, the Child Ombud Act, creates a new Office of Child Ombud within New Mexico's court system to independently review child welfare services. The ombud, appointed by a nine-member committee with child welfare expertise, will investigate complaints about the state's child welfare department, review policies protecting children's rights, and operate a toll-free hotline for families. Key provisions include requiring the ombud to investigate cases involving children in state custody, provide annual reports to lawmakers, and compile data on fatalities or near-fatalities. This office directly affects children in state custody, families receiving child welfare services, and the state department responsible for child protection.