N.Y. Executive Law § 523-i: Conduct and scope of investigations

§ 523-i. Conduct and scope of investigations. The office of the

ombudsman may investigate grievances and complaints pertaining to youth

residing in facilities operated by the office brought to the attention

of the office of the ombudsman from any source, and may in pursuing its

investigation visit any facility operated by the office at any time,

without prior notice. Facility directors and facility staff shall

cooperate with the investigation. At an ombudsman's request, the staff

of a facility shall inform the residents of the ombudsman's availability

on site or on premises. An ombudsman shall have access to any resident

on request, and the facility shall provide a suitable room, if so

requested, for private counseling. An ombudsman shall have the right to

inspect the facility, visit all areas and observe all parts and aspects

of the facility program. An ombudsman shall interview facility staff

during regular hours of employment whenever feasible. An ombudsman shall

have access to all books, records, logs, reports, memoranda and any and

all other materials or written documents pertaining to office facilities

in the possession of the office, or its facilities. An ombudsman may

copy or make reference to any such report, document, memorandum, log

entry or other material or written document and, unless such item is

confidential pursuant to statute, may include a copy in his or her

report. Consistent with applicable laws and regulations, the

confidentiality of records and documents obtained must be maintained by

the office of the ombudsman.