Missouri Senate Bill SB899

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 1/27/22

Caption

Creates provisions relating to the "Office of State Ombudsman for Inmates in the Custody of the Department of Corrections"

Impact

The implementation of SB899 would create systematic changes in how the Department of Corrections handles grievances and inmate conditions. With the establishment of a dedicated ombudsman office, there would be a more structured process for resolving inmate complaints and an emphasis on transparency. All facilities will be subject to regular inspections, and comprehensive reports will be made public to highlight conditions and needed improvements, thereby reinforcing accountability among corrections personnel and promoting a safer environment for inmates.

Summary

Senate Bill 899, introduced by Senator Mosley, aims to establish the 'Office of State Ombudsman for Inmates in the Custody of the Department of Corrections'. This office is designed to address the oversight of correctional facilities and enhance the quality of life for inmates by ensuring they receive adequate care. The bill outlines various provisions concerning the rights and welfare of inmates, empowering the ombudsman to handle complaints and monitor the conditions with the goal of improving inmate health and safety. It emphasizes the importance of accessible support for those incarcerated, including the ability to advocate for themselves regarding their treatment in the system.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB899 include potential challenges over the autonomy of the ombudsman versus the Department of Corrections. Critics may argue that oversight powers could lead to administrative conflicts or mismanage resources intended for inmate rehabilitation. Furthermore, the bill raises discussions about the adequacy of existing procedures and whether new regulations could lead to practical improvements in inmate living conditions, or if they may unintentionally complicate administrative processes further. The balance between inmate rights and correctional facility management continues to be a contentious topic within legislative discussions.