Recommendation 2016-5 – The Use of Ombuds in Federal Agencies takes account of the broad array of federal agency ombuds offices that have been established since the time of Recommendation 90-2. The recommendation suggests that agencies and Congress consider creating additional ombuds offices where they may be of benefit. It also emphasizes the importance of adherence by ombuds to the three core standards of independence, confidentiality, and impartiality, and identifies best practices for the operation, staffing, and evaluation of federal agency ombuds offices.
The full report and accompanying tables are available HERE.
Citation: Admin. Conf. of the U.S., Recommendation 2016-5, The Use of Ombuds in Federal Agencies, 81 Fed. Reg. 94316 (Dec. 23, 2016).
This recommendation updates and expands on the Administrative Conference’s earlier Recommendation 90-2, The Ombudsman in Federal Agencies, adopted on June 7, 1990. That document concentrated on “external ombudsmen,” those who primarily receive and address inquiries and complaints from the public, and was formulated before “use of ombuds” was added to the definition of “means of alternative dispute resolution” in the Administrative...
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