MO HB2832

Establishes the Office of the Department of Corrections Ombudsman by June 1, 2027, with an inspection section and complaints investigation section to monitor conditions, investigate abuse/neglect complaints, and assess compliance with federal/state regulations

Creates a 12-member Corrections Oversight Committee by March 1, 2027, including legislators, formerly incarcerated individuals, a physician, mental health professional, and family members of current inmates, who will select the ombudsman for a six-year term

Requires inspection of each department facility at least once every three years (annually for maximum security), with public reports covering conditions of confinement, staffing ratios, assaults, deaths, lockdowns, and programming availability

Grants the office unrestricted access to all facilities, inmates, records, and staff with or without prior notice, plus subpoena power over department records, employees, and contractors

Establishes confidential complaint systems including online forms, telephone hotlines for inmates and families, with 5-day confirmation and 7-day investigation determination deadlines, plus whistleblower protections prohibiting retaliation against complainants