Bill > A08453

This bill directs the state comptroller to hire an independent investigator through a competitive bidding process to conduct a comprehensive investigation of all 42 correctional facilities in the state. The investigator, which can be a private sector entity, will be jointly approved by the governor, senate president, and assembly speaker. The investigator will have broad powers to access correctional facilities, interview employees and incarcerated individuals, and consult with various organizations to identify negative policies and practices within these facilities. The investigator is required to maintain impartiality, ethical conduct, and professional standards throughout the investigation. Upon completing the investigation, the investigator must submit a detailed report to key state leaders, including the governor, senate president, assembly speaker, and corrections commissioner, which will outline findings and recommendations. The bill is temporary in nature and will automatically expire once the report is submitted, with a provision for the corrections commissioner to notify the legislative bill drafting commission about the report's submission. The primary goal is to conduct a thorough and independent review of correctional facilities to potentially improve conditions and practices within the state's correctional system.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8453