SB 525

Abstract

Extends sunset on provision authorizing Department of Human Services to appear as party in juvenile court proceeding without appearance of Attorney General. Directs Department of Human Services and Department of Justice, in consultation with Oregon District Attorneys Association, to ensure full access to legal representation, legal counsel, legal advice and litigation support for Department of Human Services by Department of Justice in juvenile dependency proceedings and child welfare matters. Permits Department of Human Services to select counties where access must be provided by county office of the district attorney. Directs Public Defense Services Commission to develop and maintain Parent-Child Representation Program statewide to provide legal representation in juvenile dependency proceedings based on workload model of contracting that provides for caseload limits. Requires public defense services executive director to create plan for implementation of program by January 1, 2022. Requires Department of Human Services, Department of Justice, public defense services executive director and Judicial Department to report to Legislative Assembly and interim committees. Requires Oregon Volunteers Commission for Voluntary Action and Service to contract with minimum of four attorneys to provide legal consultation, limited direct representation and training to CASA Volunteer Programs throughout state. Directs Judicial Department to convene continuous quality assurance advisory committee to collect and report on quality assurance measures, engage in basic quality improvement process in juvenile dependency proceedings and child welfare matters and develop performance standards for attorneys. Declares emergency, effective on passage.