CT SB01541

Correction Ombuds term extended from 2 years to 4 years starting January 6, 2027, running concurrent with the Governor's term, with expanded powers including subpoena authority, ability to conduct unannounced facility visits during lockdowns, and authority to conduct confidential surveys of incarcerated persons and DOC employees without department approval

Incarcerated persons may contact the Correction Ombuds via free telephone and electronic mail, and complaints to the Ombuds are separate from the DOC grievance process and do not require prior exhaustion of internal procedures

Correction officers must report witnessed excessive or illegal use of force directly to the facility warden, who must immediately notify the Commissioner of Correction and state police; the definition of "use of force" includes restraints, chemical agents, canines, chokeholds, munitions, and forcible cell extractions

Commissioner of Correction must develop and submit a body-worn camera implementation plan by February 1, 2026, including legislative recommendations, budget requirements, and timeline

Freedom of Information Act requirements prevail over collective bargaining agreements regarding disclosure of DOC employee disciplinary matters, and disciplinary actions for administrative directive violations in personnel files cannot be prohibited from disclosure under new agreements