The Children's Ombudsman Act gives the OCO the authority to:

 - Independently investigate complaints about children involved with protective services, foster care, adoption services, and juvenile justice. - Determine whether the DHS and/or private agency actions and decisions, as they relate to a particular child, complied with laws, rules, and DHS policies.

 - Take all necessary action to protect the rights and welfare of a child under the jurisdiction of the DHS, a private child placing agency, a child caring institution, or the family division of circuit court.

 - Review laws, rules, and DHS policies and procedures and make recommendations to the Governor, the Legislature, and the DHS for changes to improve the child welfare system.

- Educate the public about the child welfare system.