N.Y. Executive Law § 523-c: Duties of the office of the ombudsman

§ 523-c. Duties of the office of the ombudsman. The office of the

ombudsman shall:

1. visit facilities and programs in accordance with priorities

established by the director, hear grievances and complaints, investigate

alleged violations of the legal rights of youth residing in facilities

operated by the office, and monitor and participate in grievance

procedures concerning residents in secure facilities, pursuant to

section five hundred four-a of this article;

2. monitor the implementation of the policies and regulations of the

office and of the rules and regulations of other state agencies, as such

may be applicable to the legal rights of youth residing in facilities

operated by the office, and monitor the implementation of statutes,

court orders, court decisions and court stipulations which affect youth

residing in facilities operated by the office;

3. advise and assist youth residing in facilities operated by the

office to obtain legal counsel;

4. recommend policies, regulations, and legislation designed to

protect youth residing in facilities operated by the office;

5. serve as a resource to youth residing in facilities operated by the

office by informing them of pertinent laws, regulations and policies,

and their rights thereunder;

6. present significant complaints and concerns of youth residing in

facilities operated by the office to the commissioner, appropriate

office staff, and the independent review board; and

7. periodically review procedures established by the office to carry

out the provisions of this article, with a view toward the rights,

safety and development of youth residing in facilities operated by the

office.