B. Answer inquiries, investigate and work toward resolution of complaints regarding the performance and services of the department and participate in conferences, meetings and studies that may improve the performance of the department;

C. Provide services to persons to assist them in protecting their rights;

D. Inform persons of the means of obtaining services from the department;

E. Provide information and referral services;

F. Analyze and provide opinions and recommendations to agencies, the Governor and the Legislature on state programs, rules, policies and laws;

G. Determine what types of complaints and inquiries will be accepted for action by the program and adopt policies and procedures regarding communication with persons making inquiries or complaints and the department;

H. Apply for and utilize grants, gifts and funds for the purpose of performing the duties of the program, including accepting funding from the General Fund; and

I. Collect and analyze records and data relevant to the duties and activities of the program and make reports as required by law or determined to be appropriate.

4-A. Information for parents in child protective cases. The program, in consultation with appropriate interested parties, shall provide information about child protection laws and procedures to parents whose children are the subject of child protective investigations and cases under this chapter. The providing of the information under this subsection does not constitute representation of parents. Parents may seek and receive information regardless of whether they are represented by legal counsel. The information must be provided free of charge to parents.

The program shall report annually to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over judiciary matters, starting February 1, 2003 2004, on the provision of information required by this subsection.