Proposing an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter providing for the creation of the Office of the Youth Ombudsperson; and providing for the submission of the proposed amendment to the electors of Philadelphia.

This resolution proposes an amendment to the Philadelphia Home Rule Charter to establish the Office of the Youth Ombudsperson. The amendment, if approved by voters, would create a new independent office tasked with promoting the health, welfare, education, safety, well-being, and re-entry of youth in juvenile justice, child welfare, or behavioral health residential care facilities. The Office will receive complaints, investigate them, review agency competence and provider practices, identify trends, and provide recommendations. The proposed Charter amendment also specifies that at least $1,000,000 shall be appropriated annually to the Office, and sets the Youth Ombudsperson's salary at $150,000. The Mayor will appoint the Ombudsperson with Council's consent, and the Ombudsperson can only be removed for cause after a public hearing and Council vote. The amendment will be submitted to the electors for approval.

This initiative aims to improve the quality of care and oversight for youth in residential facilities. If approved by voters, it will create a new avenue for complaints and investigations, potentially leading to better outcomes and protections for vulnerable youth in the city's care.

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