41-3802. Independent oversight committee on children, youth and families

A. The independent oversight committee on children, youth and families is established in the department of administration to promote the rights of persons who receive services from the department.

B. Notwithstanding section 8-807, the department shall disclose confidential information and records to the committee established pursuant to this section or designated pursuant to subsection C of this section, subject to the requirements of section 41-3804 and applicable federal law.

C. The director of the department may designate a citizen review panel, multidisciplinary case consultation team or other oversight entity as the independent oversight committee on children, youth and families if the panel, team or entity meets the requirements of this section.

D. The committee shall be organized pursuant to this section and the requirements of section 41-3804.

E. The director of the department may establish additional committees for each district office established pursuant to section 41-1961 or to oversee the activities of any service provider.

F. Each independent oversight committee established pursuant to this section shall consist of at least seven and not more than fifteen members appointed by the director of the department with expertise in at least one of the following areas:

1. Psychology.

2. Law.

3. Medicine.

4. Education.

5. Special education.

6. Social work.

G. Each independent oversight committee shall include at least two parents of children who receive services from the department. If a report of abuse has been substantiated against a parent, that parent shall not serve on an independent oversight committee.