Prisons; Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts, Prison Oversight Coordinator position established; investigation of correctional facilities, required; Corrections Oversight Board, established

SB 316 establishes a Prison Oversight Coordinator position within Alabama's Department of Examiners of Public Accounts to monitor correctional facilities. The coordinator will inspect facilities every 1-3 years (depending on safety ratings), assessing conditions, staffing, inmate programs, medical care, and safety incidents like assaults. It also creates a Corrections Oversight Board to review findings and prohibits retaliation against staff or inmates who cooperate with inspections. The bill directly affects Alabama's prison system, requiring regular facility evaluations to address systemic issues impacting inmate safety and rehabilitation.