SB 493 Summary

• Changes title and all references from "ombudsman" to "ombudsperson" throughout the legislative corrections office statute.

• Expands who may file complaints to include family members and prisoner advocates in addition to prisoners and legislators.

• Authorizes ombudsperson to consult with qualified experts (environmental, medical, mental health professionals) who may enter facilities with testing equipment and photography capabilities, subject to 72-hour notice and department background checks.

• Requires ombudsperson to create a standardized complaint form within 120 business days, available electronically and in hard copy at correctional facilities, and mandates receipt notification to complainants.

• Establishes new reporting requirements including annual reports on website with detailed complaint data by facility and subject matter, monthly website reports, and 30-45 business day timelines for department responses and complainant notifications.