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FL S1710

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/9/2026

Primary Sponsor

Carlos Smith

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Origin

Senate

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Creates the Office of the Department of Corrections Ombudsperson within the Florida Department of Corrections, directed by an Ombudsperson selected by a 12-member Corrections Oversight Committee for a 6-year term
  • Requires the office to inspect each department facility at least once every 3 years, with maximum security facilities and problem facilities inspected annually, and all initial facility inspections completed by July 1, 2029
  • Establishes a three-tier safety and compliance classification system for facilities, with Tier 1 (most serious violations) requiring reinspection within 12 months and Tier 3 within 36 months
  • Grants the office authority to investigate complaints regarding abuse, neglect, conditions of confinement, and policy violations, with subpoena power over department records, employees, and contractors
  • Appropriates funding effective July 1, 2026, with the substantive provisions taking effect January 1, 2027, and requires annual public reports to the Governor, Legislature, and Attorney General

Legislative Description

Office of the Department of Corrections Ombudsperson

Last Action

Introduced

1/22/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available