The proposed bill seeks to establish the Office of the Independent Corrections Ombudsman within the Ombudsman-Citizens Aide, which will focus on monitoring inmate health and safety and addressing related complaints. Key updates to current statutes include the appointment of an Ombudsman Director with a five-year term and specific eligibility criteria, as well as the Office's independence from the Ombudsman-Citizens Aide. The bill mandates that the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry (ADCRR) notify the Office of actions taken on recommendations and ensures confidentiality in communications between the two entities. Enhanced access to ADCRR facilities and records, including the ability to issue subpoenas, is also included.

Additionally, the bill repeals the requirement for ADCRR to submit an annual report to the Legislature and eliminates the Auditor General's obligation for a statutory compliance report on ADCRR programs. It appropriates $1,500,000 from the state General Fund for FY 2026 to support the Office, with provisions for ongoing use of the funds. The new office will streamline reporting to focus on budget, complaints, and significant investigations, while maintaining confidentiality for complainants. Overall, the bill aims to improve oversight and accountability in Arizona's correctional system by establishing a more independent and effective monitoring body.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1279.08, 41-1604, 38-211, 12-821.01
Senate Engrossed Version: 41-1384, 41-1604, 41-1610.02, 38-211, 31-281, 31-285, 41-1602, 41-1604.06, 41-1604.07, 41-1604.10, 41-1604.14, 12-821.01, 41-1822, 35-146, 35-147, 41-797
House Engrossed Version: 41-1604, 41-1610.02, 41-1822, 35-146, 35-147, 41-797
Chaptered Version: 41-1604, 41-1610.02, 41-1822, 35-146, 35-147, 41-797