NY A09939

Establishes an independent office of the correctional ombudsman within the executive department, with a commissioner nominated by a 12-member correctional oversight board and approved or disapproved by the governor within 30 days.

Grants the ombudsman broad powers including authority to inspect correctional facilities, investigate complaints, review internal affairs and disciplinary processes, conduct autopsies of deceased inmates, issue subpoenas, and place monitors in facilities presenting imminent danger.

Requires the ombudsman to conduct inspections of each correctional facility at least every three years, issue public reports, maintain a toll-free complaint hotline, and submit annual reports to the governor and legislature on significant problems and recommendations.

Makes obstructing the ombudsman's investigations a class A misdemeanor and authorizes the attorney general to investigate and prosecute criminal offenses committed by corrections department employees in connection with their official duties.

Takes effect one year after enactment and amends multiple state laws to include the ombudsman office in oversight responsibilities, access to medical records, peace officer designation for investigators, and coroner reporting requirements.