tered by
individuals and employers.
(e) Personnel Actions.--
(1) In general.--The Ombudsman shall have the
responsibility and authority--
(A) to appoint local ombudsmen and make
available at least 1 such ombudsman for each
State; and
(B) to evaluate and take personnel actions
(including dismissal) with respect to any
employee of any local office of the Ombudsman.
(2) Consultation.--The Ombudsman may consult with
the appropriate supervisory personnel of the Bureau of
Citizenship and Immigration Services in carrying out
the Ombudsman's responsibilities under this subsection.
(f) Responsibilities of Bureau of Citizenship and
Immigration Services.--The Director of the Bureau of
Citizenship and Immigration Services shall establish procedures
requiring a formal response to all recommendations submitted to
such director by the Ombudsman within 3 months after submission
to such director.
(g) Operation of Local Offices.--
(1) In general.--Each local ombudsman--
(A) shall report to the Ombudsman or the
delegate thereof;
(B) may consult with the appropriate
supervisory personnel of the Bureau of
Citizenship and Immigration Services regarding
the daily operation of the local office of such
ombudsman;
(C) shall, at the initial meeting with any
individual or employer seeking the assistance
of such local office, notify such individual or
employer that the local offices of the
Ombudsman operate independently of any other
component of the Department and report directly
to Congress through the Ombudsman; and
(D) at the local ombudsman's discretion,
may determine not to disclose to the Bureau of
Citizenship and Immigration Services contact
with, or information provided by, such
individual or employer.
(2) Maintenance of independent communications.--
Each local office of the Ombudsman shall maintain a
phone, facsimile, and other means of electronic
communication access, and a post office addres