Constituent Liaison Responsibilities

The Constituent Liaison serves as an independent source of information and explanation for the public about services provided by the Department.

The Constituent Liaison receives complaints from the public about services provided by the Department, and refers the complaints to relevant management for response or conducts an independent investigation,
as it applies to the situation.

The Constituent Liaison monitors responses to complaints to ensure
responses are handled in a comprehensive and timely manner.

The Constituent Liaison Can...

• Answer questions about services provided by the Department.
• Receive complaints from the public about services provided by the Department, and refer the complaints to relevant management for response or conduct an independent investigation, as it applies to the situation.
• Monitor complaints to ensure responses are comprehensive and timely.

The Constituent Liaison Cannot...

• Provide information about other state agencies, although a referral will be made to the relevant state agency if possible.
• Resolve complaints about other state agencies, federal agencies, the judicial system, or private sectors, but can refer the individual to the appropriate resource.
• Review issues already in the appeals process.
• Provide legal advice.

Confidentiality

The Constituent Liaison will have access to confidential information in the Department’s possession and will maintain the confidentiality of the information as required by state and federal laws.

However, it may be necessary for individuals to sign a release of information to provide assistance in particular situations. Refusal to sign a release of information may limit the assistance that can be provided.

Reporting by the Constituent Liaison

The Constituent Liaison is located within the Department of Social Services, Office of the Secretary, and is independent of individual divisions within the Department.

The Constituent Liaison reports results of key responsibilities to the Secretary of the Department.

Contact Information

• Name: Valerie Kelly
  
• Number: 1-800-597-1603
  
• Email: DSSConstituentLiaison@state.sd.us
  
• Send concerns to:
  South Dakota Department of Social Services
  Constituent Liaison
  700 Governors Drive
  Pierre, SD 57501
• Please contact during regular business hours:
  8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (CT)