MD SB694

Office of the Correctional Ombudsman must engage an independent consultant by October 1, 2026 to perform a comprehensive assessment of Maryland's correctional system.

Assessment must evaluate infrastructure (facility layout, cell design, recreation areas, security systems), staffing (ratios, training, challenges), programming effectiveness, mental and physical health services, and restrictive housing policies.

Consultant must gather input from stakeholders and incarcerated individuals through interviews, surveys, and public hearings.

Assessment must include cost-benefit analysis of reforms, comparative analysis benchmarking Maryland against New York, New Jersey, and other leading states, and an implementation plan with short-, mid-, and long-term recommendations.

Independent consultant must complete assessment and submit written report by October 1, 2028; Office's annual report must include status updates on assessment completion and implementation of recommendations.