§ 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.