Establishes an independent Office of the Child Advocate to oversee services for children in Hawaii.

The bill establishes an independent Office of the Child Advocate within the Office of the Ombudsman to oversee and evaluate the delivery of services to children and their families by state agencies. The Child Advocate will receive and investigate complaints, review records and procedures, and issue annual reports with recommendations. The office aims to improve accountability, protect children from harm, and restore public confidence in the child welfare system. The Child Advocate will have the authority to compel testimony and access necessary records, while maintaining confidentiality.

Establishes an independent Office of the Child Advocate to oversee services for children in Hawaii.

The bill establishes an independent Office of the Child Advocate within the Office of the Ombudsman to oversee and evaluate the delivery of services to children and their families by state agencies. The Child Advocate will receive and investigate complaints, review records and procedures, and issue annual reports with recommendations. The office aims to improve accountability, protect children from harm, and restore public confidence in the child welfare system. The Child Advocate will have the authority to compel testimony and access necessary records, while maintaining confidentiality.