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| Who We Are |
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The Office of Children's Ombudsman is an independent state agency established by the Children's Ombudsman Act (Public Act 204 of 1994 ) . In December 2004, the Michigan Legislature amended Public Act 204 of 1994 to strengthen the OCO's powers and duties in an effort to achieve greater accountability in child protection matters. The amended legislation became effective January 3, 2005. The OCO's primary responsibility is to receive and investigate complaints concerning children who are involved with Michigan's child welfare system for reasons of abuse or neglect. In addition to addressing complaints, the OCO makes recommendations to the Governor, the Legislature, and the Department of Human Services (DHS) for changes in child welfare laws, rules, and policies to improve outcomes for children. Michigan's Children's Ombudsman is appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Michigan Legislature and is supported by a multi-disciplinary team of investigators. Governor Granholm appointed Verlie Ruffin as Children's Ombudsman on January 30, 2006.
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