TITLE 37.PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS

Part 3. TEXAS YOUTH COMMISSION

Chapter 81. INTERACTION WITH THE PUBLIC

37 TAC §81.1

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §81.1, concerning Public Information Request. The amendment to the section will include that requests for public information will be accepted by fax and by email. To comply with the statute, TYC staff shall respond to the requests immediately, without delay. The other change allows 10 days for the legal services department to determine if a request requires an opinion from the Attorney General.

Don McCullough, Acting Assistant Deputy Executive Director for Financial Support, has determined that for the first five-year period the section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section.

Mr. McCullough also has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the section will require a prompt response to the public on information requests. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. No private real property rights are affected by adoption of this rule.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Sherma Cragg, Chief of Policy and Manuals, Texas Youth Commission, 4900 North Lamar, P.O. Box 4260, Austin, Texas 78765.

The amendment is proposed under the Government Code Chapter 552.

The proposed rule affects the Human Resource Code, §61.034.

§81.1.Public Information Request.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule to provide information, consistent with the Public Information Act, regarding requests for public information from the agency.

(b)

If not excepted, all information collected, assembled, or maintained in connection with the transaction of official business is public information and shall be available to the public during normal business hours. Forms in which the media containing public information exists includes book, paper, letter, document, printout, photograph, film, tape, microfiche, microfilm, photostat, sound recording, map, and drawing and a voice, data, or video representation held in computer memory [ (Government Code) ].

(c)

All requests should be in writing and should include the name, address and telephone number of the requester. Requests will be accepted by fax and by e-mail.

(d)

TYC staff shall respond immediately without delay [ within ten business days ] to a request.

(e)

If the legal services department determines that the request will require an opinion by the Attorney General as to the releasability of the requested information, the request to the Attorney General must be made within ten business days of the receipt of the request for information. [ If the request is going to be denied or deferred to the Attorney General's office, a response to the request must be made within ten business days of receipt of the request. ] Otherwise, the information is open for inspection.

(f)

Information requested by a member of the legislature or a member of a legislative body will be provided at no charge. If the requested information is confidential it shall remain so in the hands of the requester. The requester shall complete TYC Affidavit: confidentiality Agreement Relating to Release of Public Information form , LS-032 regarding confidentiality.

(g)

Costs for production of requested documents are based on guidelines by the General Services Commission. See (GAP) §81.75 of this title (relating to Copying Costs).

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 30, 2001.

TRD-200101892

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 13, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 424-6301


Chapter 91. PROGRAM SERVICES

Subchapter D. HEALTH CARE SERVICES

37 TAC §91.87

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §91.87 concerning Health Insurance. The amendment to the section makes minor grammatical changes to clarify the intent of the rule. The purpose of the rule clarifies that it is a rule to establish procedures for reimbursement of third party payers for medical care. Other minor changes establish whether a court order exists for a parent or guardian to provide insurance for a youth.

Don McCullough, Acting Assistant Deputy Executive Director for Financial Support, has determined that for the first five-year period the section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section.

Mr. McCullough also has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the section to provide more efficient means of seeking reimbursement for medical care. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. No private real property rights are affected by adoption of this rule.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Sherma Cragg, Chief of Policy and Manuals, Texas Youth Commission, 4900 North Lamar, P.O. Box 4260, Austin, Texas 78765.

The amendment is proposed under the Family Code, §54.06, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to collect support payments as ordered by the court.

The proposed rule affects the Human Resource Code, §61.034.

§91.87.Health Insurance.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish procedures whereby the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) [ TYC ] shall pursue reimbursement by third party payers for the medical care of youth committed to the agency.

(b)

TYC staff shall pursue information regarding medical insurance coverage of youth, including whether a court order exists for the parent /guardian to provide insurance. The information will be systematically made available to TYC managed health care contractors and residential contract care providers.

(c)

TYC managed health care contractors will seek reimbursement for medical care from insurance companies.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March, 2001.

TRD-200101879

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 13, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 424-6301


Chapter 95. YOUTH DISCIPLINE

Subchapter A. DISCIPLINARY PRACTICES

37 TAC §95.13

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to the §,95.13 concerning On-Site Disciplinary Consequences. The amendment to the section will clarify the definition of work restitution as a disciplinary consequence. Work restitution is defined as a voluntary consequence of misbehavior and not a dollar for dollar relationship between property damage and the labor performed. The purpose is not to recover actual losses or compensate TYC for property damage. The work the youth performs is not to exceed eighty hours of actual work, is to be proportionate to the damage done, and be in furtherance of the maintenance of the facility.

Don McCullough, Acting Assistant Deputy Executive Director for Financial Support, has determined that for the first five-year period the section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section.

Mr. McCullough also has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the section will be holding youth accountable for their actions and allowing work restitution to be used as a viable consequence. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. No private real property rights are affected by adoption of this rule.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Sherma Cragg, Chief of Policy and Manuals, Texas Youth Commission, 4900 North Lamar, P.O. Box 4260, Austin, Texas 78765.

The amendment is proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.075, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to permit certain liberties under supervision and provide opportunities for rehabilitation methods.

The proposed rule affects the Human Resource Code, §61.034.

§95.13.On-Site Disciplinary Consequences.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this policy is to establish a consistent system for administering less stringent disciplinary consequences to youth in residential programs for violations of one or more Rules of Conduct. Such on-site disciplinary consequences are considered minor consequences.

(b)

Applicability.

(1)

See (GAP) §95.57 of this title (relating to Level III Hearing Procedure) for proper procedures.

(2)

See (GAP) §91.61 of this title (relating to Youth Employment and Work) for additional limitations.

(c)

Explanation of Terms Used.

(1)

On-site disciplinary consequences - appropriate consequences that may be administered when a youth violates rules , which are not serious enough to warrant disciplinary movement, assignment of minimum length of stay, or referral to criminal court (major consequences). On-site disciplinary consequences include but are not limited to:

(A)

reprimand

(B)

suspension of on and off site privileges

(C)

restriction of personal activity

(D)

facility work restitution

(E)

have personal items taken (contraband)

(F)

lose trust fund privileges

(2)

Restrictions - the consequence of limiting a youth's activity or privileges when such restriction is perceived by the youth as a negative consequence and therefore serves to deter repetition of the misbehavior.

(3)

Work restitution - is a voluntary [ The ] consequence , not a dollar for dollar relationship between the actual property damage and labor performed [ of performing tasks aimed at redressing the wrong ]. Work restitution is intended to assist the youth to develop a sense of equity and a sense of pride and responsibility for personal behavior. The purpose [ goal ] is not to recover losses [ loss ] or compensate TYC for property damage that was caused by the youth.

(d)

Procedure. An on-site consequence will be imposed in accordance with procedure in (GAP) §95.57 of this title (relating to Level III Hearing Procedure).

(e)

Appropriate Consequence. The most appropriate consequence among those available shall be selected within the following guidelines.

(1)

The consequence imposed should be the least restrictive necessary to effect learning more appropriate behavior and should be proportionate to the severity and extent of the violation.

(2)

The consequence should be imposed for the minimum period of time necessary to be effective in correcting the misbehavior.

(3)

When work restitution is the most appropriate consequence, the type, amount and duration of the work assigned should be reasonably proportionate to the value of the property lost or damaged , and shall not exceeded more than eighty hours of actual work restitution. The work required must be proportionate to the damage done and be in furtherance of the maintenance of the facility.

(f)

Rules for Imposing Restriction.

(1)

Restrictions may not interfere with basic rights.

(2)

Youth in institutions may be restricted to their rooms or to the dorm (living unit).

(3)

Youth in halfway houses may not be restricted to their rooms. They may be restricted to the facility.

[ (g)

Rules for Imposing On-Site Work Restitution. The work required must be proportionate to the damage done and be in furtherance of the maintenance of the facility.]

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 30, 2001.

TRD-200101878

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 13, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 424-6301


37 TAC §95.17

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §,95.17 concerning Behavior Management Program. The amendment to the section includes minor grammatical changes such as abbreviating individual behavior management plan to IBMP throughout the rule. A change was made to the definition of the special services panel to make it consistent with the other terms in the rule. A clarification was added to the eligibility section to indicate admissions could be counted for security intake or the security program. A section regarding dispositions was deleted as the issue is addressed in another rule and needed to be removed. A change was added to give reference to the rule where the criteria is now listed. A change was also made that youth will be notified in writing of their right to appeal. All program requirements were removed from the rule and were placed in the management section of the policy as they are internal operating procedures for the unit.

Don McCullough, Acting Assistant Deputy Executive Director for Financial Support, has determined that for the first five-year period the section is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the section.

Mr. McCullough also has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the section clearer definitions of operating guidelines for the behavior management program in the security unit. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. No private real property rights are affected by adoption of this rule.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Sherma Cragg, Chief of Policy and Manuals, Texas Youth Commission, 4900 North Lamar, P.O. Box 4260, Austin, Texas 78765.

The amendment is proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.075, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to determine appropriate treatment for youth.

The proposed rule affects the Human Resource Code, §61.034.

§95.17.Behavior Management Program.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to provide for a Texas Youth Commission (TYC) youth, assigned to a TYC operated institution, to be placed in the Behavior Management Program (BMP) and assigned a 90-day disciplinary maximum length of stay as a consequence for behavior that violates rules. Assurance that the youth is sufficiently in control to be returned to general population is affirmed by compliance with the BMP. Disciplinary transfer and segregation with an assigned maximum length of stay is a major consequence.

(b)

Applicability. This rule does not apply to:

(1)

the use of the same or adjacent space when used specifically as security intake. See (GAP) §97.37 of this title (relating to Security Intake);

(2)

the use of the same or adjacent space when used specifically as a security program. See (GAP) §97.40 of this title (relating to Security Program);

(3)

the use of the same or adjacent space when used specifically as detention in a TYC institution. See (GAP) §97.43 of this title (relating to Institution Detention Program);

(4)

the use of same or adjacent space when used specifically as temporary admission. See (GAP) §85.41 of this title (relating to Temporary Admission Awaiting Transportation);

(5)

the aggression management program. See (GAP) §95.21 of this title (relating to Aggression Management Program).

(c)

Explanation of Terms Used.

(1)

Special Services Panel--a panel comprised of special services members that review [ the director of clinical services, a program administrator, and a caseworker, which reviews ] the recommendation for admission to BMP made by the youth's caseworker.

(2)

Program Review Panel--a three-person panel chaired by the assistant superintendent, which reviews BMP extension requests.

(3)

Individual Behavior Management Plan (IBMP) --a plan developed for each youth in the BMP which consists of objectives which address the behavior or cluster of behaviors that prevent the youth from successfully participating in regular programming.

(4)

Aggression Management Program (AMP)--a program designed for removing youth from the general population for dangerously aggressive behavior.

(5)

Admissions, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee--a committee that makes decisions on educational matters of special education students.

(6)

Individual Education Plan (IEP)--the prescribed plan by which education will be delivered to a special education student.

(d)

Contract Care Program Restriction. TYC contract programs shall not develop a BMP having a specific disciplinary length of stay.

(e)

Program Eligibility and Admission.

(1)

Eligibility.

(A)

Youth eligible for the BMP are youth who knowingly engage in, aid, or abet someone else to engage in one or more of the following behaviors:

(i)

willful destruction of property of $100 or more; or

(ii)

assault resulting in bodily injury; or

(iii)

escape or attempted escape as defined in (GAP) §97.29 of this title (relating to Escape/Abscondence and Apprehension); or

(iv)

intentionally participating in riotous conduct as defined in (GAP) §97.27 of this title (relating to Riot Control); or

(v)

engaging in inappropriate sexual contact, sexual assault, or aggravated sexual assault; or

(vi)

possessing any item defined as a weapon in the Penal Code or threatening others with use of an object which could be used as a weapon; or

(vii)

threatening bodily injury to others; or

(viii)

possessing a controlled substance; or

(ix)

engaging in self-harm; or

(x)

chronic and substantial disruption of the routine of the facility program with ten or more security admissions or extensions to security intake or security program in a three-month period or five or more security admissions or extensions in a 30-day period, without reduction in the frequency of the disruptive behaviors. Disruptive behavior is behavior, which prevents or significantly interferes with others' ability to participate in scheduled activities and programs.

(B)

Referral is made to a Special Services Panel and approved by the assistant superintendent based on a determination that the following criteria have been met:

(i)

the youth poses a continuing risk for identified admitting behavior(s); and

(ii)

when appropriate, less restrictive methods of documented intervention have failed and are unable to manage the risk; and

(iii)

the mental status of the youth is assessed and there are no therapeutic contraindications for admission to the BMP.

(2)

Due Process Hearing. If there is a finding of true with no extenuating circumstances in a level II hearing that the youth engaged in one of the behavioral criteria listed in paragraph (1)(A)(I) of this subsection, the youth is admitted to the BMP with an assigned 90-day disciplinary maximum length of stay. See (GAP) §95.51 of this title (relating to Level II Hearing Procedure).

(3)

Appeal. The youth shall be notified in writing [ informed ] of his/her right to appeal to the executive director. See (GAP) §93.53 of this title (relating to Appeal to Executive Director). The pendency of an appeal shall not preclude implementation of the decision.

(4)

Dispositions.

[ (A) ]

Pursuant to a level II hearing herein, certain youth who are assessed a disposition under this rule may also be assigned a disciplinary minimum length of stay disposition but only if criteria have been met and if the youth was given notice of the specific disposition request. All policy and program requirements of (GAP) §95.11 of this title (relating to Disciplinary Transfer/Assigned Minimum Length of Stay Consequence) will apply to the assignment of such.

[(B)

BMP Placement Pending Assignment to the Aggression Management Program (AMP). If the disposition at the level II hearing held pursuant to this policy also resulted in a placement in an AMP, but bed space is not available in the AMP, the youth may be assigned to a placement in the BMP (at the youth's current placement) pending admission to AMP, but only if criteria for the AMP was proven and the youth was given notice of the specific disposition to AMP. If the youth completes the disciplinary maximum length of stay in the BMP (including the extension) prior to admission to AMP, the youth shall not be admitted to AMP as a result of the conduct determined at the level II hearing that resulted in the placement to BMP.]

(5)

A BMP length of stay runs concurrently with a youth's classification minimum length of stay, or any disciplinary assigned minimum length of stay.

(6)

Families are notified of youth's admission to the BMP within 24 hours of the hearing.

(f)

Program Completion.

(1)

An IBMP [ Individual Behavior Management Plan ] must be developed for each youth. The plan will consist of objectives that address the behavior or cluster of behaviors that prevent the youth from successfully participating in regular programming. The plan will be explained to the youth and he/she will sign the plan in acknowledgment.

(2)

A youth shall be released when one of the following occurs:

(A)

youth has met specific performance objectives on the IBMP [ Individual Behavior Management Plan ]; or

(B)

youth has completed his/her length of stay; or

(C)

youth is transferred to the AMP pursuant (GAP) § 95.21(c)(3) of this title (relating to Aggression Management Program) [ to subsection (e)(4) of this section ].

(g)

Program Extension.

(1)

An extension of up to 30 days may be recommended by a Program Review Panel and approved by the superintendent if the following criteria have been met:

(A)

youth's behavior does not comply with program; and

(B)

an appropriate IBMP [ Individual Behavior Management Plan ] addressing the non-conforming behaviors of the youth has been developed and implemented; and

(C)

the modified IBMP [ behavior management plan ] can be completed within 30 days; and

(D)

the mental status of the youth was assessed and there are no therapeutic contraindications for continued confinement in the BMP.

(2)

Reporting. A Program Review Panel Report must be completed and forwarded to the superintendent within 10 working days following the hearing. The report shall include the panel's findings and explanation of the rationale for the findings. If the decision is appealed, the report should be expedited.

(3)

Appeal. The youth shall be notified in writing [ informed ] of his/her right to appeal to the executive director. See (GAP) §93.53 of this title (relating to Appeal to Executive Director). The pendency of an appeal shall not preclude implementation of the decision.

[(h)

Program Requirements.]

[(1)

Individual doors are locked.]

[(2)

All segregation programs will ensure at a minimum the following:]

[(A)

appropriate psychological and medical services;]

[(B)

the same food, including snacks prepared in the same manner as for other youth except for special diets that are prescribed on an individual basis by a physician, dentist or psychiatrist or approved by a chaplain;]

[(C)

one hour of large muscle exercise daily; and]

[(D)

appropriate educational services.]

[(3)

The assistant deputy executive director for juvenile corrections will approve a standardized program and rules for the security unit.]

[(4)

The director of security will post the program schedule and rules of the security unit and ensure the rules are reviewed with and signed by the youth.]

[(5)

Youth will engage in the standardized program and comply with the rules of the security unit, but if programming is not provided, youth may remain on their mattresses during that time.]

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 30, 2001.

TRD-200101877

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 13, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 424-6301


Part 7. TEXAS COMMISSION ON LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER STANDARDS AND EDUCATION

Chapter 211. ADMINISTRATION

37 TAC §211.1

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to Title 37, Texas Administrative Code, §211.1, concerning definitions. The proposed amendment adds a definition for court-ordered community supervision and amends the definition of the term Texas Peace officer for the purposes of eligibility of reserve officers for the Texas Peace Officers' Memorial. This amendment also proposes a change to the effective date in subsection (b) of this section.

Dr. D.C. Jim Dozier, Executive Director of the Commission, has determined that for the first five-year period that the proposed amended section is in effect there will be no new fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Dr Dozier has also determined that for each year of the first-five years this section is in effect, there will be no new anticipated public benefit as a result of enforcing this rule. There will be no effect on small or micro businesses. There will be no new anticipated increase in economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Written comments should be submitted to Dr. D.C. Jim Dozier, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 U.S. Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, Texas 78723, or by facsimile (512) 936-7714.

This amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code Annotated, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 which authorizes the Commission to promulgate rules for the administration of this chapter.

The following statute is affected by this proposed rule: Texas Occupations Code Annotated, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 - General Powers.

§211.1.Definitions.

(a)

The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1)

Academic provider--A school, recognized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, which has been approved by the commission to provide basic licensing courses.

(2)

Accredited college or university--An institution of higher education that is accredited or authorized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges, or the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

(3)

Active--A license issued by the commission that meets the current requirements of licensure, including those legislatively required.

(4)

Agency--A law enforcement unit or other entity, whether public or private, authorized by Texas law to appoint a person licensed or certified by the commission.

(5)

ALJ or Administrative Law Judge--See "Hearings Examiner" defined below.

(6)

Appointed--Elected or commissioned by an agency as a peace officer, reserve or otherwise selected or assigned to a position governed by the Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, without regard to pay or employment status.

(7)

Armed public security officer--A person appointed under the provisions of Chapter 758, 70th Legislature, 1987.

(8)

Background investigation--may include:

(A)

an investigation looking specifically at a person's dependability; integrity; initiative; situational reasoning ability; self-control; writing skills; reading skills; oral communications skills; interpersonal skills; and physical ability; and

(B)

a report that documents an investigation into an applicant's suitability for licensing and appointment which includes: biographical data; scholastic data; employment data; criminal history data; interviews with references, supervisors, and other people who have knowledge of the person's abilities, skills, and character; and a summary of the investigator's findings and conclusions regarding the applicant's moral character and suitability.

(9)

Basic licensing course--Any current commission developed course that is required before an individual may be licensed by the commission. The courses include: Peace Officer, Reserve Officer, Criminal Justice Transfer Curriculum and County Corrections.

(10)

Basic peace officer course--The current commission developed course(s) required for licensing as a peace officer, taught at a licensed law enforcement academy in accordance with commission requirements.

(11)

Certified copy--A true and correct copy of a document or record certified by the custodian of records of the submitting entity.

(12)

Chief administrator--The head or designee of an agency.

(13)

Commission--The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education.

(14)

Commissioned--Has been given the legal power to act as a peace officer or reserve, whether elected, employed, or appointed.

(15)

Commissioners--The nine commission members appointed by the governor and, where appropriate, the five ex-officio members.

(16)

Committee--The Texas Peace Officers' Memorial Advisory Committee, an advisory body authorized under Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, or its successor.

(17)

Contract jail--A correctional facility, operated by a county, municipality or private vendor, operating under a contract with a county or municipality, to house inmates convicted of offenses committed against the laws of another state of the United States, as provided by Texas Government Code, §511.092.

(18)

Contractual training provider--A law enforcement agency, a law enforcement association, or alternative delivery trainer that conducts specific education and training under a contract with the commission.

(19)

Convicted--Has been adjudged guilty of or has had a judgment of guilt entered in a criminal case that has not been set aside on appeal, regardless of whether:

(A)

the sentence is subsequently probated and the person is discharged from probation;

(B)

the charging instrument is dismissed and the person is released from all penalties and disabilities resulting from the offense;

(C)

the cause has been made the subject of an expunction order; or

(D)

the person is pardoned, unless the pardon is expressly granted for subsequent proof of innocence.

(20)

Court-ordered community supervision--Any court-ordered community supervision or probation resulting from a deferred adjudication or conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction. However, this does not include supervision resulting from a pretrial diversion.

(21)

[ (20) ]Distance education--The enrollment and study with an educational institution which provides lesson materials prepared in a sequential and logical order for study by students on their own.

(22)

[ (21) ]Duty ammunition--Ammunition required or permitted by the agency to be carried on duty.

(23)

[ (22) ]Endorsement of eligibility--An official document stating that an individual has met the minimum training standards appropriate to the type of examination sought.

(24)

[ (23) ]Executive director--The executive director of the commission or any individual authorized to act on behalf of the executive director.

(25)

[ (24) ]Experience--Includes each month, or part thereof, served as a peace officer, reserve, jailer, or telecommunicator. Credit may, at the discretion of the executive director, be awarded for relevant experience from an out-of-state agency.

(26)

[ (25) ]Firearms--Any handgun, shotgun, rifle, or fully automatic weapon that is carried by the individual officer in an official capacity on or off duty.

(27)

[ (26) ]Firearms proficiency--Successful completion of the annual firearms proficiency requirements.

(28)

[ (27) ]Hearings examiner or Judge--An administrative law judge appointed by the chief administrative law judge of the State Office of Administrative Hearings pursuant to the Texas Government Code, Ch. 2003, or a person appointed by the executive director to conduct administrative hearings for the commission.

(29)

[ (28) ]Individual--A human being who has been born and is or was alive.

(30)

[ (29) ]Jailer--A person employed or appointed as a jailer under the provisions of the Local Government Code, §85.005, or Government Code §511.092.

(31)

[ (30) ]Killed in the line of duty--A Texas peace officer killed as a directly attributed result of a personal injury sustained in the line of duty.

(32)

[ (31) ]Law--Including, but not limited to, the constitution or a statute of this state, or the United States; a written opinion of a court of record; a municipal ordinance; an order of a county commissioners' court; or a rule authorized by and lawfully adopted under a statute.

(33)

[ (32) ]Law enforcement academy--A school operated by a governmental entity that has been licensed by the commission, which may provide basic licensing courses and continuing education.

(34)

[ (33) ]Lesson plan--Detailed guides from which an instructor teaches. The plan includes the goals, specific content and subject matter, performance or learning objectives, references, resources, and method of evaluating or testing students.

(35)

[ (34) ]License--[ means a ] A license, certificate, registration, permit, or other form of authorization required by law or a state agency rule that must be obtained by an individual to engage in a particular business.

(36)

[ (35) ]Licensee--An individual holding a license issued by the commission.

(37)

[ (36) ]Line of duty--Any lawful and reasonable action which a Texas peace officer is authorized by law, rule, regulation, or written condition of employment or appointment to perform.

(38)

[ (37) ]Officer--A peace officer or reserve.

(39)

[ (38) ]Peace officer--A person elected, employed, or appointed as a peace officer under the Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 2.12, or under other statute.

(40)

[ (39) ]Placed on probation--Has received an adjudicated, unadjudicated or deferred adjudication probation for a criminal offense.

(41)

[ (40) ]POST--State or federal agency with jurisdiction similar to that of the commission, such as a peace officer standards and training agency.

(42)

[ (41) ]Reactivate--To make a license issued by the commission active after at least a two-year break in service.

(43)

[ (42) ]Reinstate--To make a license issued by the commission active after disciplinary action or after expiration of a license due to failure to obtain required continuing education.

(44)

[ (43) ]Renew--Continuation of an active license issued by the commission.

(45)

[ (44) ]Reserve--A person appointed as a reserve law enforcement officer under the provisions of the Local Government Code, §85.004, §86.012 or §341.012

(46)

[ (45) ]Self-assessment--Completion of the commission created process, which gathers information about a training or education program.

(47)

[ (46) ]SOAH--The State Office of Administrative Hearings.

(48)

[ (47) ]Successful completion--A result of:

(A)

70 percent or better; or

(B)

C or better; or

(C)

pass, if offered as pass/fail.

(49)

[ (48) ]Texas peace officer--For the purposes of eligibility for the Texas Peace Officers' Memorial, an individual who had been elected, employed, or appointed as a peace officer under Texas law; an individual appointed under Texas law as a reserve peace officer [ who had been officially called to duty ]; a commissioned deputy game warden, or a corrections officer in a municipal, county or state penal institution, or any other officer authorized by Texas law.

(50)

[ (49) ]Telecommunicator--A dispatcher or other emergency communications specialist appointed under or governed by the provisions of the Occupations Code, Chapter 1701.

(51)

[ (50) ]Training coordinator--An individual, appointed by a commission-recognized training provider, who has the knowledge and skills to oversee the training activity conducted by that provider.

(52)

[ (51) ]Training hours--Actual classroom or distance education hours. One college semester hour equates to 20 training hours.

(53)

[ (52) ]Verification (verified)--The confirmation of the correctness, truth, or authenticity of a document, report, or information by sworn affidavit, oath, or deposition.

(b)

The effective date of this section is August [ March ] 1, 2001.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 2, 2001.

TRD-200101895

Edward T. Laine

Chief, Professional Standards and Administrative Operations

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: August 1, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


Chapter 217. LICENSING REQUIREMENTS

37 TAC §217.19

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to Title 37, Texas Administrative Code §217.19, concerning the reactivation of a license. The proposed amendment includes changes to subsections (b) and (c) of this section. Clarification is provided in subsection (b) of this section, stating that, before individuals with inactive licenses can be appointed, they must meet the current licensing standards by having successfully completed a prior basic licensing course that fulfills the current licensing course requirement. Individuals must have also successfully completed the legislatively required continuing education for the current training cycle. Once an individual has met the current standards; and made application, in the format currently prescribed by the commission, submitted any required fee(s) and upon the approval of the application, the commission will issue the holder of an inactive license an endorsement of eligibility to take the required licensing examination. This endorsement of eligibility will allow the applicant to take the examination three times. If failed three times, the applicant may not be issued another endorsement of eligibility until successful completion of the current licensure course. This amendment also proposes a change to the effective date in subsection (h) of this section.

Dr. D.C. Jim Dozier, Executive Director of the Commission, has determined that for the first five-year period that the proposed amended section is in effect there will be no new fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Dr Dozier has also determined that for each year of the first-five years this section is in effect, there will be no new anticipated public benefit as a result of enforcing this rule. There will be no effect on small or micro businesses. There will be no new anticipated increase in economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Written comments should be submitted to Dr. D.C. Jim Dozier, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 U.S. Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, Texas 78723, or by facsimile (512) 936-7714.

This amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code Annotated, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 which authorizes the Commission to promulgate rules for the administration of this chapter.

The following statute is affected by this proposed rule: Texas Occupations Code Annotated, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 - General Powers.

§217.19.Reactivation of a License

(a)

The commission will place all licenses in an inactive status when the licensee has not been reported to the commission as appointed for more than two years after:

(1)

the last report of termination; or

(2)

the date of last reactivation.

(b)

Individuals with basic licensure training over two years old must meet the requirements of §217.19(f) and (g) before they may be appointed.

(c)

Individuals with basic licensure examination results over two years old must meet the requirements of §217.19(f) and (g) before they may be appointed.

(d)

The holder of an inactive license is unlicensed for purposes of these sections and the Occupations Code, Chapter 1701.

(e)

This section includes any permanent peace officer qualification certificate with an effective date before September 1, 1981.

(f)

Before individuals with inactive licenses may be appointed they must:

(1)

meet the current licensing standards, with successful completion of a prior basic licensing course fulfilling the current licensing course requirement; and

(2)

successfully complete the legislatively required continuing education for the current training cycle.

(g)

Once an individual has:

(1)

met the current standards; and

(2)

made application, in the format currently prescribed by the commission, submitted any required fee(s); and upon the approval of the application, the commission will issue the holder of an inactive license an endorsement of eligibility to take the required licensing examination. This endorsement of eligibility will allow the applicant to take the examination three times. If failed three times, the applicant may not be issued another endorsement of eligibility until successful completion of the current licensure course.

(h)

The effective date of this section is August [ March ] 1, 2001.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 2, 2001.

TRD-200101896

Edward T. Laine

Chief, Professional Standards and Administrative Operations

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: August 1, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


Chapter 219. PRELICENSING AND REACTIVATION COURSES, TESTS, AND ENDORSEMENTS OF ELIGIBILITY

37 TAC §219.1

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to Title 37, Texas Administrative Code §219.1, concerning eligibility to take state licensing examinations. The proposed amendment includes changes to subsection (d) of this section. Clarification is provided in subsection (d) of this section, stating that, in order to issue an endorsement of eligibility, the person issuing such an endorsement must have on file for the person to whom it is issued, written documentation of successful completion of the basic licensing course for the license sought. This amendment also proposes a change to the effective date in subsection (I) of this section.

Dr. D.C. Jim Dozier, Executive Director of the Commission, has determined that for the first five-year period that the proposed amended section is in effect there will be no new fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Dr Dozier has also determined that for each year of the first-five years this section is in effect, there will be no new anticipated public benefit as a result of enforcing this rule. There will be no effect on small or micro businesses. There will be no new anticipated increase in economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Written comments should be submitted to Dr. D.C. Jim Dozier, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 U.S. Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, Texas 78723, or by facsimile (512) 936-7714.

This amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code Annotated, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 which authorizes the Commission to promulgate rules for the administration of this chapter.

The following statute is affected by this proposed rule: Texas Occupations Code Annotated, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 - General Powers.

§219.1.Eligibility to Take State Examinations.

(a)

To be eligible to take a state licensing examination, a student must have a valid endorsement of eligibility.

(b)

An endorsement of eligibility to take an examination is issued by an academy coordinator, the executive director of the commission, or a person authorized by the executive director. An endorsement of eligibility based on training that was completed more than two years before the date of issue may be issued only by the executive director of the commission.

(c)

Duplicate, out-of-state, second, and third endorsements may be issued only by the executive director of the commission.

(d)

In order to issue the endorsement of eligibility, the person issuing such an endorsement must have on file , for the person to whom it is issued, written documentation of successful completion of the basic licensing course for license sought; and

(1)

written documentation that the person is currently licensed by the commission; or

(2)

if the person is not currently licensed by the commission, written documentation that the applicant meets the current enrollment standards.

(e)

A valid endorsement of eligibility shall:

(1)

be in the current commission format;

(2)

be a completed original document bearing all required signatures,

(3)

state that the examinee has met the current minimum training standards appropriate to the license sought; and

(4)

include a date of issue.

(f)

For an endorsement of eligibility to be or remain valid:

(1)

it must not be issued in error or based on false or incorrect information; specifically, the applicant must meet the current enrollment standards; and

(2)

it must be presented before two years from the date of issue.

(g)

An examination may not be taken by an individual who already holds any license or certificate to be awarded upon passing that examination.

(h)

Once an initial endorsement of eligibility is issued, an examinee will be allowed three opportunities to pass the examination. After three failures, the examinee must re-qualify by repeating the entire training course for the license sought. If an attempt is invalidated for any reason, that attempt will count as one of the three opportunities.

(i)

The effective date of this section is August [ March ] 1, 2001.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 2, 2001.

TRD-200101897

Edward T. Laine

Chief, Professional Standards and Administrative Operations

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: August 1, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


Chapter 229. TEXAS PEACE OFFICERS' MEMORIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

37 TAC §229.1

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to Title 37, Texas Administrative Code §229.1, concerning the general eligibility of deceased Texas peace officers and their inclusion on the Texas Peace Officers' Memorial. The amendment proposes the elimination of subsection (a)(3) of this section concerning reserve peace officer's. This amendment also proposes a change to the effective date in subsection (c) of this section.

Dr. D.C. Jim Dozier, Executive Director of the Commission, has determined that for the first five-year period that the proposed amended section is in effect there will be no new fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Dr Dozier has also determined that for each year of the first-five years this section is in effect, there will be no new anticipated public benefit as a result of enforcing this rule. There will be no effect on small or micro businesses. There will be no new anticipated increase in economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the rule as proposed.

Written comments should be submitted to Dr. D.C. Jim Dozier, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 U.S. Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, Texas 78723, or by facsimile (512) 936-7714.

This amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code Annotated, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 which authorizes the Commission to promulgate rules for the administration of this chapter.

The following statute is affected by this proposed rule: Texas Occupations Code Annotated, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 - General Powers.

§229.1.General Eligibility of Deceased Texas Peace Officers.

(a)

A deceased Texas peace officer, killed in the line of duty, is eligible for inclusion on the Texas peace officers' memorial if the person was:

(1)

a Texas peace officer among those listed under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 2.12;

(2)

a Texas peace officer among those licensed by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, under the Government Code, Chapter 415, or Occupations Code 1701;

[ (3)

a Texas peace officer officially called to duty as a Texas reserve peace officer;]

(3)

[ (4) ]a Texas peace officer among those listed under the Texas Education Code;

(4)

[ (5) ]a Texas peace officer among those named as such by other Texas law;

(5)

[ (6) ]a Texas peace officer who, in historical perspective, would be eligible under any of the preceding criteria; or

(6)

[ (7) ]a Texas corrections officer employed or appointed by a municipal, county or state penal institution.

(b)

If the supported finding is that the Texas peace officer died as a result of infectious disease contracted while lawfully performing official duties, or by exposure to hazardous materials or conditions while lawfully performing official duties, the Texas peace officer is eligible for inclusion.

(c)

The effective date of this section as amended shall be August [ March ] 1, 2001.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on April 2, 2001.

TRD-200101898

Edward T. Laine

Chief, Professional Standards and Administrative Operations

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: August 1, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


Part 11. TEXAS JUVENILE PROBATION COMMISSION

Chapter 343. STANDARDS FOR JUVENILE PRE-ADJUDICATION SECURE DETENTION FACILITIES

37 TAC §343.1

The Texas Juvenile Probation Commission proposes an amendment to §343.1 concerning definitions. The amendment is being proposed in an effort to alleviate the misinterpretation of the term chronic overcrowding with juvenile probation departments.

Scott Friedman, Director of Field Services, has determined that for the first five year period the amendments are in effect, there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government or small businesses as a result of enforcement or implementation.

Mr. Friedman has also determined that for each year of the first five years the amendment is in effect, the public benefit expected as a result of enforcement or implementation will be primarily the public benefit expected as a result of enforcement or implementation will be primarily the to ensure that facilities will know that conditions of overcrowding are not permissible and to help ensure the safety of both residents and staff. There will be no impact on small business or individuals as a result of the amendments.

Public comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted to Kristy M. Carr at the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission, P.O. Box 13547, Austin, Texas 78711-3547.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Human Resources Code §141.042, which provides the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission with the authority to adopt reasonable rules that provide minimum standards for juvenile boards and that are necessary to provide adequate and effective probation services.

No other rule or standard is affected by these amendments.

§343.1. Definitions.

The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) - (3)

(No change)

[(4)

Detention Facility Chronic Overcrowding--A detention facility shall be considered to be chronically overcrowded if, within a six month period, the daily population count taken between the hours of 6:00 am and 8:00 am exceeds the rated capacity of the facility by 20% or more on 90 or more days.]

(4)

[ (5) ] Detention Officer--A person whose primary responsibility is the direct and immediate supervision of the daily activities of detained juveniles. Administrative, food services, janitorial, and other auxiliary staff are not considered to be detention officers.

(5)

[ (6) ] Hold Over Detention Facility--Any holdover facilities located in the same building or grounds with an adult correctional facility, including those authorized by Section 51.12(I), Texas Family Code, shall comply with criteria set forth in the federal Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (42 U.S.C. 5601, et.seq.) and any subsequent amendments, rules and interpretive commentary passed or promulgated thereto after the effective date of this standard.

(6)

[ (7) ] Rated Capacity--Maximum number of juveniles who may be housed within a facility in accordance with TJPC Standards.

(7)

[ (8) ] Secure Detention Facility--Any public or private residential facility that includes construction and fixtures designed to physically restrict the movements and activities of juveniles or other individuals held in lawful custody in the facility and is used for the temporary placement of any juvenile or other individual who is accused of having committed an offense and is awaiting court action, an administrative hearing, or other transfer action. Such facilities shall be operated separately from any post-adjudication facility. Where such facilities are located in the same building or on the same grounds as a post-adjudicatory facility, written policies and procedures require contact between the two populations be kept to a minimum.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 30, 2001.

TRD-200101881

Lisa Capers

Deputy Executive Director and General Counsel

Texas Juvenile Probation Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 13, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 424-6710


37 TAC §343.8

The Texas Juvenile Probation Commission proposes an amendment to §343.8 concerning multiple occupancy sleeping units. The amendment is being proposed in an effort to reapply standards that were inadvertently removed from the Texas Administrative Code during the last rule adoption relating to §343.8.

Scott Friedman, Director of Field Services, has determined that for the first five year period the amendments are in effect, there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government or small businesses as a result of enforcement or implementation.

Mr. Friedman has also determined that for each year of the first five years the amendment is in effect, the public benefit expected as a result of enforcement or implementation will be primarily the ability to ensure the safety of juvenile, staff and visitors within a pre-adjudication facility. There will be no impact on small business or individuals as a result of the amendments.

Public comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted to Kristy M. Carr at the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission, P.O. Box 13547, Austin, Texas 78711-3547.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Human Resources Code §141.042, which provides the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission with the authority to adopt reasonable rules that provide minimum standards for juvenile boards and that are necessary to provide adequate and effective probation services.

No other rule or standard is affected by these amendments.

§343.8.Physical Plant.

(a)

Written policy and procedure and practice of the following standards shall apply to all detention facilities.

(1)- (4)

(No change)

(5)

Safety plan. Safety plan. Written policies shall promote the safety of juveniles, staff, and visitors. The policies shall be reviewed annually by a qualified fire prevention and safety officer. These shall include, but shall not be limited to:

(A)

conformance with the Life Safety Code, NFPA 101 and/or applicable state and local fire safety codes. The Life Safety Code will not apply in geographic areas under the jurisdiction of a local government that has adopted fire protection ordinances that apply in that geographic area. Compliance shall be documented by the authority having jurisdiction;

(B)

maintenance of a current fire drill log;

(C)

proper disposal of combustible refuse;

(D)

a posted plan for prompt evacuation of the facility;

(E)

training of staff to conduct fire drills on all shifts and to implement written emergency plans;

(F)

procedures for use and control of flammable, toxic, and caustic materials; and

(G)

provisions to detect and promptly correct conditions hazardous to the health and safety of juveniles and staff.

(6)-(9)

(No change)

(b)

(No change)

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, on March 30, 2001.

TRD-200101880

Lisa Capers

Deputy Executive Director and General Counsel

Texas Juvenile Probation Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 13, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 424-6710