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Bill

HB 2364

Creating an ombudsman program within the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation to review complaints against a state agency or correctional facility.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by David Kelly

HB 2364 establishes an independent ombudsman program to review inmate complaints, enhancing accountability and transparency in West Virginia's correctional facilities.

To House Judiciary
#corrections
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Bill Summary · HB 2364

Summary of Bill HB 2364

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 2364
  • Title: Creating an ombudsman program within the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation to review complaints against a state agency or correctional facility.
  • Status: To House Judiciary
  • Introduced: February 13, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Corrections

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HB 2364 is to establish an ombudsman program within the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. This program aims to provide an independent mechanism for reviewing and addressing complaints made against state agencies or correctional facilities. The intent is to enhance accountability, transparency, and responsiveness within the corrections system.

Key Provisions

  • Creation of Ombudsman Program: The bill mandates the establishment of an ombudsman program specifically focused on the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
  • Complaint Review Process: The ombudsman will be responsible for reviewing complaints from inmates, their families, and other stakeholders regarding the operations and conditions of state correctional facilities.
  • Reporting Mechanism: The ombudsman will have the authority to compile reports on findings and recommendations based on the complaints reviewed, which will be submitted to relevant authorities and made available to the public.
  • Independence: The ombudsman will operate independently from the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation to ensure impartiality in handling complaints.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Inmates and Families: The primary beneficiaries of this program will be inmates and their families, who will have a formal avenue to voice concerns and seek resolution regarding their treatment and conditions within correctional facilities.
  • Correctional Facilities: State correctional facilities will be subject to increased scrutiny and oversight, which may lead to changes in policies and practices based on the ombudsman’s findings.
  • State Agencies: The program may also impact other state agencies involved in corrections and rehabilitation by fostering a culture of accountability and responsiveness to public concerns.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 13, 2025: The bill was filed for introduction and subsequently introduced in the House and referred to the House Judiciary Committee on the same day.

Conclusion

HB 2364 represents a significant step towards improving oversight within West Virginia's correctional system by establishing an ombudsman program. By providing a structured process for addressing complaints, the bill aims to enhance the rights and welfare of inmates while promoting accountability within correctional facilities. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final form and implementation of this initiative.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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