The proposed bill would significantly update current statutes by establishing the Office of the Independent Corrections Ombudsman within the Ombudsman-Citizens Aide, replacing the previous oversight structure under the Office of the Auditor General. Key changes include the appointment of a Director by the Governor, who must have relevant experience, and the requirement for the Office to operate independently 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, ensures confidentiality of communications, and grants the Office access to ADCRR facilities and records, along with the authority to issue subpoenas.

Additionally, the bill repeals the requirement for the Auditor General to submit an annual compliance report and eliminates the annual reporting obligations for ADCRR regarding inmate data. It streamlines reporting to focus on the Office's budget, complaints, and significant investigations, while appropriating $1,500,000 from the state General Fund for ongoing funding. The new Office will also have the authority to disclose information in specific circumstances to prevent harm and will maintain confidentiality for complainants, ultimately aiming to enhance oversight, accountability, and transparency within the correctional system.

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