MS SB2138

Establishes an Office of the Department of Corrections Ombudsman within 270 days of enactment with two sections: Inspections Section and Complaints Investigation Section.

Creates a Corrections Oversight Committee within 180 days to select the ombudsman (who serves a 6-year term) and includes legislative members, prisoner advocates, formerly incarcerated individuals, medical professionals, and family members of incarcerated persons.

Grants the ombudsman authority to conduct unannounced facility inspections at least every 3 years (annually for maximum security), access all department records within 5-20 business days, and meet privately with inmates without monitoring by department staff.

Empowers the office to investigate complaints from inmates, family members, and staff regarding abuse, conditions of confinement, administrative actions, and alleged staff violations that affect inmate health and safety.

Requires annual public reports by December 31 to the Governor, Attorney General, and Legislature detailing inspections, complaints, findings, facility conditions, staffing levels, assaults, deaths, and recommendations for improvements; effective July 1, 2021.