FL S1160

Creates the Office of the Corrections Ombudsman as an independent unit within the legislative branch to investigate complaints, monitor conditions, and oversee the Department of Corrections

Ombudsman serves a 5-year term, appointed and removable by majority vote of the Legislature, and must have corrections and human rights experience with no department employment ties in the preceding 10 years

Establishes a 15-member Corrections Oversight Committee by January 1, 2027, including legislators, healthcare professionals, educators, clergy, formerly incarcerated individuals, and family members of current inmates

Grants the Ombudsman and committee members immediate, unannounced access to all correctional facilities, staff, incarcerated persons, and records, with confidential communications protected as privileged mail

Appropriates $250,000 in recurring General Revenue funds for fiscal year 2026-2027, with annual reporting to legislative leadership beginning December 1, 2027