The office is responsible for receiving and resolving complaints concerning inmates and their families, correctional staff members, and correctional volunteers. It is a statutorily established State agency, separate from the Kansas Department of Corrections. Through its conflict resolution efforts, the office works to reduce the tensions in correctional facilities and the tendency for violence towards persons and State property. Indirectly, the ombudsman works towards reducing litigation in the courts. The ombudsman is appointed by a 15-member State board. During fiscal year 1980, the office made a concerted effort to work with the Kansas Correctional Institution of Women (KCIW). This effort involved extensive handling of individual complaints and conducting a study of KCIW's methods of documenting decisionmaking regarding inmate management. The study resulted in 27 recommendations. Other accomplishments during the year included successful work with the legislature in establishing permanent rules and regulations for the Kansas Department of Corrections and in formulating new regulations for speedier review and reimbursement of damaged and lost personal property of inmates and staff members. A total of 624 complaints were resolved during 1980. The four major categories of complaints included accuracy of records, custody status and parole eligibility, medical care, and property loss. Within the first 5 years of operation, the office has resolved 2,376 complaints and made 13,928 contacts. Office publications during this period include 'Report on the Adjustment and Treatment Building at the Kansas State Penitentiary' and 'Property Loss Study.' Expenditures have risen from $36,387 in 1976 to $99,362, in 1980. Tables, figures, and a few photographs are included. (Author abstract modified).