Contact:
Mara Powell
mpowell@kyyouth.org

Statement from Dr. Terry Brooks, executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates

LOUISVILLE, KY – During the 2023 legislative session, the General Assembly passed and the Governor signed Senate Bill 48, a comprehensive bill that makes multiple organizational changes to the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Within SB 48 a key win for kids and families was included that moved the Office of the Ombudsman from CHFS to the Auditor of Public Accounts. This change will increase transparency, accountability, and an opportunity for families served by CHFS to have a voice in their concerns.

Kentucky Youth Advocates commends the Interim Joint Committee for Families and Children Co-Chairs Representative Heavrin and Senator Carroll’s request for updates on the status of the transition of the Ombudsman’s Office. This creates an opportunity for the public, and importantly, those families and children accessing services from CHFS to understand the status of implementation and issues they need to be aware of.

We are hopeful – and heard CHFS Secretary Friedlander’s and Auditor Ball’s commitment today – that our leaders will find a resolution to ensure a successful transition of a fully functioning Ombudsman.

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About Kentucky Youth Advocates
Kentucky Youth Advocates believes all children deserve to be safe, healthy, and secure. As THE independent voice for Kentucky’s children, we work to ensure policymakers create investments and policies that are good for children. Learn more at www.kyyouth.org.