State Rep. Jennifer Wortz today led the Michigan House in voting for a legislative plan that enforces safety and promotes transparency throughout the Michigan correctional system. 

“Multiple deaths within our correctional facilities made it clear that change is needed,” said Wortz (R-Quincy). “The current model is unacceptable. We need to make sure that these facilities are operating with strict safety standards and clear guidelines for official accountability. I’m proud to have led the Legislature in taking meaningful action to ensure that safety remains our top priority.” 

House Bills 5920 and 5921, introduced by Reps. Wortz and Bohnak (R-Deerton), significantly broaden the oversight authority of the Legislative Corrections Ombudsman, an independent office tasked with investigating complaints and concerns related to the Michigan Department of Corrections.  

The bills expand the authority of Legislative Corrections Ombudsman to investigate complaints from corrections employees, family members of prisoners or corrections officers, and prisoners’ advocates. Current law only allows prisoners or legislators to file complaints with the ombudsman. 

“When the state is directly responsible for care and custody, firm oversight is essential,” Wortz said. “Our institutions need to operate lawfully, efficiently, and safely. By passing these bills, we’re making sure that the government we are funding is actually doing its job.” 

The legislation requires the department to give the ombudsman access to key records, including medical, mental health, mortality, and morbidity records, without the need for additional release forms. To strengthen transparency and accountability, the legislation also requires the ombudsman to issue monthly and annual public reports outlining the number of complaints received and the outcomes of those cases. 

The bills now head to the Senate for further consideration.