Foster Care Ombudsman (FCO)
During the 2019 Legislative Session, HB 2010, relating to Foster Care, created an independent Foster Care Ombudsman. The Ombudsman is required to have experience as a former foster parent or in the area of child welfare.
The Ombudsman Shall:
- Advocate for the rights of foster children and foster parents and work closely with all involved parties.
- Investigate and resolve complaints by foster children and foster parents regarding managed care services, public agencies, and social service agencies.
- Monitor the development of regulations, policies and procedures related to the child welfare system.
The Foster Care Ombudsman is in the process of developing policies and procedures to implement a successful Foster Care Ombudsman Program within the Office of Inspector General, which provides autonomous, independent and neutral oversight of DHHR programs and operations.