NY A05283

Grants the Correctional Association of New York authority to conduct regular and unannounced inspections of all juvenile detention and residential facilities operated or certified by the Office of Children and Family Services, including access to property, documents, records, policies, and staff

Requires the Correctional Association to immediately report any allegations or evidence of youth maltreatment or abuse to the OCFS Commissioner, the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs, and Prisoners' Legal Services of New York

Mandates annual reports to the Governor, legislative leaders, and committee chairs on facility conditions and recommended improvements, with the first report due by November 1 following enactment; OCFS must respond in writing to findings

Requires OCFS to ensure all youth in covered facilities have access to a confidential toll-free hotline operated by Prisoners' Legal Services for reporting abuse or complaints about conditions, with quarterly facility visits to inform youth of their rights

Authorizes Prisoners' Legal Services to provide legal representation to youth in these facilities, including confidential contact visits, access to records (including sealed court records without an unseal order), and authority to investigate complaints