SB 1409 Summary

• Amends the procedures for the ombudsman-citizens aide when investigating complaints and making recommendations about state agencies.

• Requires the ombudsman-citizens aide to consult with any person or agency before rendering an opinion or recommendation that is critical of them; preliminary opinions and recommendations remain confidential.

• Specifies that recommendations can address matters needing further agency consideration, statutory amendments, administrative act modifications, or determinations of arbitrary/capricious conduct.

• Allows the ombudsman-citizens aide to request agencies notify the office of actions taken on recommendations within a specified timeframe.

• Directs the ombudsman-citizens aide to refer findings of breach of duty or misconduct by agency officers/employees to prosecutors (if within jurisdiction), the agency's chief executive officer, the governor, legislative presiding officers, or other appropriate officials.