Section 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.