Office of the Ombudsperson

The Department of Developmental Services (Department) received funding through the 2022 Budget Act to establish an Office of the Ombudsperson to assist individuals and/or their families who are applying for or receiving regional center services regarding the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act. Beginning December 1, 2022, this new Office will be available to provide information, facilitate resolutions to disagreements and complaints, make recommendations to the Department, and compile and report data. 

Responsibilities

The Ombudsperson assists regional center clients and their families to access their regional center services available under the Lanterman Act. 

This Office can: 

1. Provides information to regional center clients and their families, 

2. Facilitates resolution to disagreements and complaints, 

3. Makes recommendations, and 

4. Compiles and reports data. 

The Office of the Ombudsperson cannot: 

5. Decide disputes in favor of one party or another, 

6. Represent someone in the appeal process, 

7. Make a recommendation to a court or hearing officer, or 

8. Overturn a final hearing decision 

Intake Form 
 

Website: https://www.dds.ca.gov/initiatives/office-of-the-ombudsperson/ 

Email: Ombudsperson@dds.ca.gov 

Phone: 877-658-9731