HI HB1156

Authorizes the Hawaii ombudsman to investigate contracted facilities holding state inmates, including private and out-of-state correctional institutions.

Requires all Department of Public Safety contracts with correctional facilities to include provisions for full cooperation with ombudsman investigations.

Defines "contracted facility" as any correctional facility with which the department has contracted to hold inmates, and amends the definition of "agency" under ombudsman jurisdiction to include contracted facilities.

Permits ombudsman to visit correctional facilities and contracted facilities at suitable hours during investigations.

Appropriates funds for fiscal year 2011-2012 to cover expenses and staffing needs resulting from expanded ombudsman jurisdiction over contracted facilities.