OFFICE OF CHILD OMBUD ACT

HB 391 creates the Office of Child Ombud in New Mexico to independently review child welfare services and handle complaints. It establishes a nine-member selection committee (with specific expertise requirements, including Indian Child Welfare Act knowledge) to appoint a six-year ombud who will investigate complaints about the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, operate a toll-free hotline, and review systems protecting children's rights. The ombud will investigate cases involving child fatalities or near-fatalities in state custody, provide updates to complainants, and issue annual reports to lawmakers. The office, attached to the administrative office of the courts, will have authority to subpoena witnesses and make referrals while maintaining budget autonomy.