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

HB 2364 creates a Corrections and Rehabilitation Ombudsman position within West Virginia’s Office of the Inspector General. The ombudsman will review complaints from or on behalf of inmates or residents regarding abuse allegations, deaths, critical incidents, or health/welfare concerns in correctional facilities. Key provisions include confidential complaint handling, annual reporting, policy review recommendations, and protections against retaliation for complainants. This program directly affects incarcerated individuals, correctional facilities, and state agencies managing detention systems. The bill establishes a formal process for addressing facility concerns without requiring the ombudsman to advocate for complainants or provide legal services.