5 M.R.S. §26208: Reporting and oversight

1. Annual report. Beginning in 2028, the Child Advocate shall report annually by January 15th to the Governor, the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over health and human services matters, the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over juvenile justice matters and the advisory committee on the activities of the office. The report must include an account of complaints received, case-specific reviews conducted, systems-wide recommendations, information and referral services, outreach and advocacy and any obstacles to carrying out the requirements of the office. The report is a public record.

2. Oversight. The joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over health and human services matters shall review the operations of the office and may make recommendations to the Governor regarding the operations and administration of the office. The joint standing committee may report out legislation related to the annual report under subsection 1.