Bill > A05283

This bill authorizes the Correctional Association of New York to conduct comprehensive inspections and oversight of residential juvenile detention facilities operated by the Office of Children and Family Services. The bill grants the Correctional Association broad powers to regularly visit and examine various types of juvenile detention facilities, including non-secure, secure, and specialized facilities, with the authority to conduct unannounced visits, review documents, and interview staff and residents. The organization can investigate potential abuse or maltreatment of youth, with a mandatory requirement to report any such findings to relevant authorities. Additionally, the bill establishes a mechanism for Prisoners' Legal Services of New York to provide legal representation and support to youth in these facilities, including creating a confidential hotline for reporting complaints and giving them access to facility records. The Correctional Association must produce an annual public report detailing the conditions of these facilities and make recommendations for improvements, with the Office of Children and Family Services required to respond to these findings. The bill explicitly excludes foster care placements and direct placements with relatives from these provisions. The new law will take effect 60 days after becoming law.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5283