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Governor signs bill expanding ombuds authority to juvenile rehabilitation centers
Summary
Senate Bill 5032 expands the Washington State Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds' authority to investigate complaints at juvenile rehabilitation centers operated by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Senator Claire Wilson said the change gives families a place to be heard.
The Governor signed Senate Bill 5032, extending the investigative authority of the Washington State Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds to include juvenile rehabilitation facilities operated by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families.
State Senator Claire Wilson, the bill’s prime sponsor, said the change fills a statutory gap that left emerging adults and families without a clear place to bring complaints or seek support. 'This is a minor change, but a major impact in our work with kids and families across the state,' Wilson said at the signing.
The Governor and the senator thanked ombuds staff and other supporters for their work; the signing concluded with photographs. The ceremony did not include detailed implementation timelines for case intake or additional staffing for the ombuds office.
