(A) There is created a youth and family ombudsmen office under the department of job and family services consisting of the following:
(1) A family ombudsman, who shall be appointed by the governor, to investigate complaints made by adults;
(2) A youth ombudsman, who shall be appointed by the governor with advice from the overcoming hurdles in Ohio youth advisory board, to investigate complaints made by youth and to advocate for the best interests of children involved in concerns investigated by the office;
(3) Not fewer than two regional ombudsmen;
(4) Any necessary support staff.
(B) The office shall investigate and resolve concerns made by or on behalf of children and families involved with public children services agencies, Title IV-E agencies, or private provider agencies that administer or oversee foster care or placement services for the children services system. The office shall ensure the independent and impartial review of youth, family, and community complaints or concerns.
Last updated September 25, 2025 at 2:51 PM