Establishes the Office of the Ombudsman for Children to oversee child welfare services in New Jersey.

The bill establishes the Office of the Ombudsman for Children in New Jersey, independent of the Office of the Attorney General. The Ombudsman is tasked with ensuring effective, appropriate, and timely services for children at risk of abuse and neglect. The Ombudsman can investigate allegations of child abuse or neglect, review agency responses, and monitor corrective action plans. The office will also maintain a 24-hour hotline for public referrals and conduct public hearings. The Ombudsman reports annually to the Governor, the Commissioner of Children and Families, and the Legislature.

Establishes the Office of the Ombudsman for Children to oversee child welfare services in New Jersey.

The bill establishes the Office of the Ombudsman for Children in New Jersey, independent of the Office of the Attorney General. The Ombudsman is tasked with ensuring effective, appropriate, and timely services for children at risk of abuse and neglect. The Ombudsman can investigate allegations of child abuse or neglect, review agency responses, and monitor corrective action plans. The office will also maintain a 24-hour hotline for public referrals and conduct public hearings. The Ombudsman reports annually to the Governor, the Commissioner of Children and Families, and the Legislature.