LC 572 Legislature · 2025 Regular Session

Generally revise laws related to child and family ombudsman

This bill revises the laws governing Montana's Office of the Child and Family Ombudsman by expanding its staffing requirements and clarifying its powers and duties. It mandates the hiring of specific personnel, including intake specialists, associate ombudsmen, and data analysts, to support the office's operations. The legislation requires the ombudsman to provide timely responses to individuals seeking assistance, actively work to resolve their issues, and conduct investigations into administrative acts related to child abuse and neglect. Additionally, the bill establishes a formal process where the ombudsman must submit systemic recommendations to the state department twice yearly, with the department required to respond within 60 days or explain why recommendations cannot be implemented. The bill also removes an existing privilege section and strengthens the ombudsman's ability to share findings with authorized entities while maintaining confidentiality protections.
Bill status introduced 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Oct 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Oct 21, 2024 Last action Jan 30, 2025
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