Bill > HB5565

This bill establishes the Office of Independent Oversight Ombudsman for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice as a new state agency designed to monitor and improve conditions within correctional facilities. The ombudsman, who will be appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate, will serve a four-year term and be responsible for investigating complaints, reviewing grievances, inspecting facilities, and ensuring the rights of offenders are protected. The office will have broad powers to access facility records, interview staff and inmates, and conduct investigations, while maintaining strict confidentiality for individuals involved. An independent nine-member advisory board will be created to help guide the ombudsman's work, with members representing diverse backgrounds including healthcare, social work, criminal investigations, and persons with direct experience in the criminal justice system. The ombudsman is prohibited from investigating criminal behavior directly but can review criminal investigations conducted by the department's inspector general. The bill also includes strong protections against retaliation for employees or offenders who communicate with the ombudsman's office, and requires the ombudsman to produce periodic and annual reports to the governor, legislature, and state auditor. The office is designed to operate independently of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, with separate funding and the ability to make recommendations for improving department operations.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5565