(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana lawmakers have approved a bipartisan bill aimed at strengthening oversight of the state's child welfare system, sending the measure to Gov. Mike Braun for final consideration.
House Bill 1307 would require the Department of Child Services Ombudsman to investigate complaints, shifting the office from an optional resource to a mandatory oversight body. Supporters say the change will improve accountability and transparency within DCS. Indiana Capital Chronicle reported.
Authored by Rep. Alex Burton, D-Evansville, the bill passed the Senate this week after clearing the House earlier in the session.
If signed into law, the expanded oversight requirements would take effect July 1, 2026. Advocates say the move responds to long-standing concerns about the need for stronger protections for vulnerable children in Indiana's care system.