TITLE 37.PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS

Part 3. TEXAS YOUTH COMMISSION

Chapter 91. PROGRAM SERVICES

Subchapter D. HEALTH CARE SERVICES

37 TAC §91.85, §91.91

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §91.85, concerning Medical Care and §91.91, concerning Psychopharmacotherapy. The amendment to §91.85 incorporates the mid level practitioner as an individual who is a physician's assistant or an advanced practice nurse that is certified as such by the respective state board. The mid level practitioner is now included as a professional authorized to deliver specific medical intervention. Other changes include minor grammar changes, incorporating the abbreviation HCP for health care professionals, and clarifying that discharge summaries will be developed when a youth transitions to parole or is discharged from the facility. The amendment to §91.91 clarifies that the use of standing orders for psychotropic drugs must comply with state regulations. The other change allows for an exception that standing orders not be utilized unless the mid-level practitioners are used to provide services under a supervising psychiatrist.

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 allowing for alternate certified medical staff to provide medical care in a more cost and time efficient manner. Also appropriate psychiatric intervention will be used in the administering of psychotropic medications. 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 amendments are proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.076, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to provide any medical of psychiatric treatment that is necessary.

The proposed rules affect the Human Resource Code, §61.034.

§91.85.Medical Care.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish basic standards and policies for delivery of health care services to Texas Youth Commission (TYC) youth.

(b)

Explanation of Terms Used.

(1)

Health Care Professional [ Professionals ] (HCP) --any person who has completed a course of study in a field of health including RN's, physicians, [ and ] dentists , and mid level practitioners . The person is usually licensed by a government agency or certified by a professional organization.

(2)

Mid Level Practitioner --Physician's Assistant or Advanced Practice Nurse that is certified as such by the respective state board.

(c)

Services.

(1)

TYC shall provide for professional medical and dental services for its youth in residential care. These services may be provided through contractual arrangements with providers of health care.

(2)

Access to a licensed HCP [ health care professionals ] is available 24 hours a day.

(3)

Medical/dental services will be delivered by a licensed HCP [ the facility physician, dentist, psychiatrist, and nurses, ] directly or indirectly through a contract with a health care provider. The facility physician will act as the local health authority.

(4)

All youth in residential care will receive a physical and dental screening and examination upon admission to TYC and annually thereafter.

(5)

Youth are provided medical examination and treatment following an injury, following contamination from use of a chemical agent, and following the use of force if indicated.

(6)

In facilities housing females, obstetrical, gynecological, family planning, and health education services will be available on site or by referral.

(7)

Routine medical complaints:

(A)

in institutions, nursing staff respond at the scheduled sick call to be held at least once a day, five days per week. A physician or mid level practitioner and dentist will provide services at least weekly. The psychiatrist or mid level practitioner will provide services on campus as agreed in his/her contract; and

(B)

in halfway houses and contract facilities, nursing consultation will be available on a daily basis. The physician and dentist will be available to provide medical services as needed. A psychiatrist or mid level practitioner will be available to provide mental health services as needed and as agreed in a contract.

(d)

General Procedural Requirements.

(1)

Facility nurses will, for each TYC youth, develop an individual medical plan which documents current health status and availability of medical insurance.

(2)

Youth, who by history or examination, have a chronic or debilitating condition may be placed on medical alert by the responsible physician.

(3)

Pharmaceutical procedures will comply with federal and state laws and accepted industry practices pertaining to the acquisition, storage, administration, and documentation of prescription drugs.

(4)

The responsible physician or psychiatrist may authorize medical and pharmacological intervention when required in a life threatening situation consistent with criteria in (GAP) §91.81 of this title (relating to Medical Consent). When this intervention requires the use of psychotropic medication, the authorization must be consistent with criteria in (GAP) §91.92 of this title (relating to Psychotropic Medication-Related Emergencies).

(5)

Youth may file grievances related to health care services through the youth complaint procedure.

(6)

All efforts are made by TYC and contracted healthcare providers to utilize third party reimbursement if available.

(7)

Facilities housing more than 25 youth must have a central medical room with medical examination facilities.

(e)

Limitation of Services.

(1)

TYC is not responsible for medical costs incurred by youth:

(A)

on furlough or parole status when they are placed in the home of a parent, relative or guardian;

(B)

on escape status;

(C)

for injuries/illnesses sustained while on escape/abscondence status; or

(D)

in detention centers or county facilities.

(2)

Pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and medical experiments are prohibited. This policy does not preclude individual treatment of a youth based on his/her [ his or her ] need for a specific medical procedure , which is not generally available.

(f)

Medical Discharge.

(1)

In the event a youth suffers an injury or medical illness that [ which ] requires extended specialized care or which prevents a youth's return to active program participation, the case is reviewed for possible early discharge and referral for outside medical care.

(2)

Youth who have a serious medical need and have been determined to be at low risk based on the nature and length of offense history, may be considered for discharge provided there is a successful referral to an appropriate outside treatment resource.

(3)

Facility nurses will, for each TYC youth, develop an individual discharge summary, upon transition to parole or discharge [ at release or discharge ], that provides recommendations for follow-up care when a youth is released or discharged.

§91.91.Psychopharmacotherapy.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this policy is to provide for the use of psychopharmacotherapy as an established method of treatment of emotionally disturbed adolescents for the clinical relief of symptoms distressing to the youth or interfering with normal functioning.

(b)

Medical or pharmaceutical experimentation or research using TYC youth is strictly prohibited.

(c)

Psychotropic drugs shall not be administered for purposes of punishment or for program management or control. Psychotropic medication may only be prescribed for youth who have had a physical examination by a physician.

(d)

Psychotropic medication shall be given only to a youth who has a diagnosed psychiatric disorder. A diagnostic assessment shall be performed by the prescribing physician prior to initiating a psychotropic drug order. Indication for the drug therapy must be documented. Every effort will be made to ensure that prescribing is a collaborative effort between the youth and the clinician, necessitating, whenever reasonable or possible, the sharing of information such as treatment objectives, disadvantages, available alternatives, and side effects.

(e)

The lowest dosage that will maintain the desired therapeutic effect shall be considered the proper dosage.

(f)

The oral route will be the preferred method of administration in the absence of specific contraindications.

(g)

Standing orders will not be utilized for psychotropic drugs , except where psychiatric mid-level practitioners are used to provide services under a supervising psychiatrist. The use of standing orders must comply with applicable state regulations .

(h)

Psychotropic medication may not be administered against the will of a youth except in a medication related emergency as specified in (GAP) §91.92 of this title (relating to Psychotropic Medication-Related Emergencies).

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 4, 2001.

TRD-200101976

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 20, 2001

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


Chapter 93. YOUTH RIGHTS AND REMEDIES

37 TAC §93.53

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to the §93.53, concerning Appeal to Executive Director. The amendment to the section makes minor sentence structure changes as well as adds a decision from a Title IV-E hearing as being eligible for a direct appeal to the executive director. An automatic appeal for youth being detained in a location other than a TYC operated institution. A youth in a TYC institution will have an automatic appeal to the executive director after a third and subsequent level IV hearing.

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 enhanced due process for youth. 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, §61.045, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to operate programs that take into consideration the welfare, and rehabilitation of the youth under its care.

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

§93.53.Appeal to Executive Director.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to permit Texas Youth Commission (TYC) youth, their parents or guardians, and TYC or contract program employees to appeal decisions made by TYC or contract program employees to the TYC executive director [ Executive Director ].

(b)

An appeal to the executive director may be filed , after all preliminary levels of appeal have been exhausted, concerning any TYC or contract program employee decision regarding a complaint[ filed through the TYC complaint resolution system, after all preliminary levels of appeal have been exhausted ].

(c)

A direct appeal to the executive director may be filed in matters limited to:

(1)

parole revocation;

(2)

reclassification;

(3)

classification;

(4)

a disciplinary transfer or assigned disciplinary length of stay under (GAP) §95.11 of this title (relating to Disciplinary Transfer/Assigned Minimum Length of Stay Consequence);

(5)

behavior management program length of stay and extension under (GAP) §95.17 of this title (relating to Behavior Management Program);

(6)

aggression management program length of stay under (GAP) §95.21 of this title (relating to Aggression Management Program);

(7)

a disapproved home evaluation;

(8)

the results of an alleged mistreatment investigation under (GAP).§93.33 of this title (relating to Alleged Mistreatment);

(9)

an appeal of a level IV hearing when a youth is being detained in a location other than a TYC operated institution;

(10)

[ (9) ] a result of [ decision from ] the third and subsequent [ a ] level IV hearing pursuant to (GAP) §95.59 of this title (relating to Level IV Hearing Procedure) when a youth is in an institution detention program ;[ or ]

(11)

[ (10) ] a decision from a mental health status review hearing pursuant to (GAP) §95.71 of this title (relating to Mental Health Status Review Hearing Procedure); or

(12)

a decision from a Title IV-E hearing.

(d)

All appeals to the executive director must be filed within six months of the decision being appealed. Appeals filed after that time may be considered, at the discretion of the executive director.

(e)

The executive director shall respond to each appeal, in writing, within 30 working days after receipt of the appeal. When the response cannot be completed within 30 working days, a delay letter explaining that the decision is delayed but will be forthcoming is sent to the complainant. Failure to respond to an appeal within this time period will constitute an exhaustion of administrative remedy for purposes of appeal to the courts, but will not be construed as acceptance or rejection of any contention made in the appeal.

(f)

Opinions are distributed to the youth, the youth's attorney or representative, if any and certain TYC staff.

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 4, 2001.

TRD-200101975

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 20, 2001

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


Chapter 95. YOUTH DISCIPLINE

Subchapter B. DUE PROCESS HEARINGS PROCEDURES

37 TAC §§95.51, 95.55, 95.57, 95.59

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §95.51, concerning Level I Hearing Procedure;§95.55, concerning Level II Hearing Procedure; §95.57, concerning Level III Hearing Procedure; §95.59, concerning Level IV Hearing Procedure. The amendment to §95.51 simplifies the manner in which the primary service worker requests a hearing from the legal services department and minor grammar changes. The amendment to §95.55 includes only minor grammatical changes, and clarifies when a level II hearing must be scheduled when a youth is admitted to the institution detention program. The amendment to §95.57 will clarify when the rule is applicable to determine minor disciplinary consequences for youth on parole. The amendment to §95.59 adds that a youth pending charges or pending a trial is eligible for a level IV hearing. The amendment also clarifies that numbers of days are considered working days as well as defines that a hearing must be held in a community detention facility unless it is properly waived, further detention is necessary, and the level I or II hearing cannot be held within ten days. A change was made to state that the decision-maker in a hearing must not be the person who requested the youth's detention in an institution detention program or in a community detention program. Clarifications were made stating the youth's release must occur if the hearing is not timely held or properly waived. Other changes involve a youth's right to appeal. The youth will be notified in writing of the right to appeal. For youth in institution detention, the first and second level IV hearing appeals will be to the superintendent. An automatic appeal to the executive director will occur on the third and subsequent appeals even if the youth waives the hearing. For youth being detained elsewhere, appeals of a level IV hearing will be to the executive director. Other changes to the rule were minor grammatical changes.

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 increased accountability placed on TYC youth as well as increased due process for youth to ensure their rights are protected. 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 amendments are proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.075, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to determine treatment and liberty under supervision when behavior is conducive.

The proposed rules affect the Human Resource Code, §61.034.

§95.51.Level I Hearing Procedure.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish a [ the rules and ] procedure to be followed when the highest level of due process is afforded a youth. The level I hearing procedure is appropriate due process in the following instances.

(1)

parole revocation

(2)

reclassification

(3)

extension of time to treat a psychiatric disorder in connection with a Corsicana Stabilization Unit placement at the Corsicana Residential Treatment Center (as appropriate).

(b)

Applicability.

(1)

See (GAP) §95.53 of this title (relating to Level I Hearing by Telephone) for circumstances in which the hearing may be conducted by telephone.

(2)

See (GAP) §95.9 of this title (relating to Parole Revocation Consequence).

(3)

See (GAP) §95.7 of this title (relating to Reclassification Consequence).

(4)

See (GAP) §87.67 of this title (relating to Corsicana Stabilization Unit).

(c)

Explanation of Terms Used. Preponderance of the evidence - a standard of proof meaning the greater weight and degree of credible evidence admitted at the hearing, e.g., whether the credible evidence makes it more likely than not that a particular proposition is true.

(d)

Procedure.

(1)

The hearing shall be conducted by a hearings examiner appointed by the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) hearings section chief. The hearings examiner shall be impartial.

(2)

The hearing shall be conducted in two parts: fact-finding and disposition.

(A)

The purpose of the fact-finding shall be to establish whether the youth's behavior and/or circumstances require that action be taken.

(B)

The purpose of the disposition shall be to determine whether the action proposed by TYC staff is appropriate under TYC policy.

(3)

The person requesting a hearing shall appoint a staff representative to appear at the hearing and present the reasons for the proposed action. The staff representative shall also be responsible for making relevant information available to all parties to the hearing.

(4)

The youth shall be assisted by legal counsel at the hearing. The agency will arrange counsel for indigent youth.

(5)

The primary service worker (PSW) requests [ shall request ] a hearing by completing the Level I Hearing Request E-form and transmitting it to the legal services department as soon as practical but no later than seven days, excluding weekends and holidays, after the alleged violation. A delay of more than seven days in scheduling the hearing must be justified by documentation of circumstances, which made it impossible, impractical, or inappropriate to schedule the hearing earlier.

(6)

The date and time for the hearing shall be determined by the hearings examiner.

(7)

The hearing shall be held in the community where the alleged rule violation occurred unless, for good cause, the hearings examiner directs that it be held in another locale.

(8)

All necessary parties shall be present at the hearing site unless it is conducted pursuant to (GAP) §95.53 of this title (relating to Level I Hearing by Telephone).

(9)

The staff representative shall provide the youth with written notice of the date and time of the hearing not less than three working days before the scheduled date. This notice shall include:

(A)

the reason(s) for the hearing;

(B)

the proposed action to be taken; and

(C)

the youth's rights in connection with the hearing.

(10)

The staff representative shall make reasonable efforts to inform the youth's parent(s) of the date, time and place of the hearing not less than three working days prior to the scheduled hearing date.

(11)

The staff representative shall provide counsel for the youth with written notice of the date, time, and place of the hearing not less than three working days prior to the scheduled hearing date. The notice to counsel shall also include:

(A)

the name, address, and telephone number of the staff representative and the hearings examiner;

(B)

a list of all witnesses the staff representative intends to call;

(C)

an indication of the expected testimony of each witness;

(D)

copies of any statements made by the youth;

(E)

copies of any statements, affidavits, reports, or other documentation relied upon as grounds for the proposed action; and

(F)

copies of any reports or summaries which will be relied upon at disposition.

(12)

Requests for continuance or postponement shall be directed to the hearings examiner.

(13)

If requested by counsel, the hearings examiner shall postpone the hearing [ for not more than 10 days following the date upon which counsel received notice of the hearing ]. The hearings examiner may grant a postponement for good cause at the request of any party.

(14)

As soon as possible following receipt of the notice of hearing, and no later than the commencement of the hearing, counsel shall inform the staff representative of any witnesses he wishes to call on behalf of the youth. The staff representative will, if necessary, assist counsel in contacting those witnesses and securing their attendance at the hearing.

(15)

The staff representative shall provide counsel for the youth with reasonable access to all information concerning the youth, which is held by TYC. Counsel for the youth will respect the confidential nature of such information and will comply with reasonable requests to withhold sensitive information from the youth or his family.

(16)

Prior to the hearing, the hearings examiner may review copies of any documentation previously provided to counsel except for those documents which relate solely to dispositional criteria. Such information shall be made available to the hearings examiner only if the hearing proceeds to disposition.

(17)

If necessary, the hearings examiner may direct that a subpoena be issued to compel the attendance of a witness at the hearing or the production of books, records, papers, or other objects.

(A)

Motions for subpoenas shall be addressed to the hearings examiner and shall state the name and address of the witness or specify the books, records, papers, or other objects desired and the material and relevant facts to be proved by them. If the matter of testimony sought is relevant, material, and necessary and will not result in harassment or undue inconvenience or expense, the hearing examiner shall direct the issuance of a subpoena.

(B)

Subpoenas shall be issued only after a showing of good cause and deposit of sums sufficient to insure payment of expenses incident to the subpoenas. Payment of witness fees shall be in the manner prescribed in the Administrative Procedure and Texas Register Act (Texas Civil Statutes Article 6252-13a, §14).

(18)

A victim who appears as a witness should be provided a waiting area which eliminates or minimizes contact between the victim and the youth, the youth's family, or witnesses on behalf of the youth.

(19)

To protect the confidential nature of the hearing, persons other than the youth, counsel for the youth, the staff representative, and the youth's parent(s) may be excluded from the hearing room at the discretion of the hearings examiner, however:

(A)

observers may be permitted with the consent of the youth;

(B)

any person except the youth's counsel may be excluded from the hearing room if their presence causes undue disruption or delay of the hearing. The reason(s) for the youth's exclusion are stated on the record.

(20)

The hearing shall be tape recorded and the hearings examiner shall retain copies of all documents admitted into evidence. Physical evidence may be retained at the discretion of the hearings examiner; if not retained, an adequate description of the item(s) shall be entered in the record by oral stipulation.

(21)

Factual issues not in dispute may be stipulated to by the staff representative and counsel for the youth. Such stipulations shall be made on the record of the hearing.

(22)

A youth accused of misconduct shall be given the opportunity to respond "true" or "not true" to each allegation of such conduct prior to any evidence being heard on such allegations.

(A)

The youth shall have a right to respond "not true" to any such allegation and require that proof of the allegation be presented at the hearing.

(B)

A response of "true" to any such allegation shall be sufficient to establish each and every element necessary to proof of that allegation without the presentation of any other evidence.

(23)

All witnesses shall take an oath to testify truthfully.

(24)

With the exception of the youth, any person designated as a witness may be excluded from the hearing room during the testimony of other witnesses and may be instructed to refrain from discussing their testimony with anyone until all the witnesses have been dismissed.

(25)

The hearings examiner may question each witness at his discretion. Counsel for the youth and the staff representative shall be given an opportunity to question each witness.

(26)

The hearings examiner may permit a witness to testify outside the presence of the youth if such appears reasonable and necessary to secure the testimony of the witness. If the youth is excluded from the hearing room during testimony, counsel for the youth shall be present during the testimony and shall have the opportunity to review the testimony with the youth before questioning the witness.

(27)

The youth shall not be called as a witness unless, after consulting with counsel, he or she waives his right to remain silent on the record.

(A)

The youth's failure to testify shall not create a presumption against him.

(B)

A youth who waives his right to remain silent may only be questioned concerning those issues addressed by his testimony.

(28)

All factual issues shall be determined by a preponderance of the evidence.

(29)

The hearings examiner shall determine the admissibility of evidence. Irrelevant, immaterial, or unduly repetitious evidence shall be excluded.

(30)

The rules of evidence will generally be applicable , [ . ] unless [ Unless ] specifically precluded by statute, evidence not admissible under those rules may be admitted if it is of a type commonly relied upon by reasonably prudent persons [ men ] in the conduct of their affairs.

(31)

Copies of due process hearing documents need not be certified if such document(s) are part of the youth's record(s).

(32)

Accomplice testimony is sufficient to prove an allegation if it is corroborated by other evidence tending to connect the youth with the alleged violation. The corroboration is not sufficient if it merely shows the commission of the violation alleged. If two accomplices testify, the testimony of each can serve to corroborate the other.

(33)

Legally recognized privileges of relationships will be given effect.

(34)

Evidence otherwise admissible may be received in written form if so doing will expedite the hearing and will not significantly prejudice the rights or interests of the youth.

(35)

A youth's written statement concerning his possible involvement in illegal activities is admissible if it is signed by the youth and accompanied by evidence indicating that the youth made the statement voluntarily after being advised of:

(A)

his right to remain silent;

(B)

the possible consequences of giving the statement;

(C)

his right to consult with an attorney prior to giving the statement; and

(D)

his right to have an attorney provided for him if he is indigent.

(36)

A youth's oral statement is admissible only if it relates facts which would not have otherwise been discovered, are found to be true and which tend to establish the youth's involvement in illegal activities.

(37)

The hearings examiner shall rule immediately on any motions or objections made in the course of the hearing. All such motions, objections, and rulings shall be included in the hearings examiner's written report.

(38)

The hearings examiner may, for good cause, recess or continue the hearing for such period(s) of time as may be necessary to insure an informed and accurate fact-finding.

(39)

Following the presentation of all evidence pertaining to the factual issues raised at the hearing, the hearings examiner shall announce his findings as to those issues.

(A)

When the fact-finding concerns an allegation of criminal conduct, the hearings examiner may find that the evidence suffices to prove an offense other than that originally alleged and enter the appropriate allegation in the record if the original allegation gave sufficient notice of the offense proved.

(B)

Irrespective of the evidence, the hearings examiner may not find a criminal offense more serious than that originally alleged unless the original allegation has been amended on the record and after notice to counsel for the youth.

(C)

If the hearings examiner's findings require that disposition be made, the hearing shall proceed to disposition; if not, the hearing shall be adjourned with no change in the youth's status.

(40)

The hearings examiner may receive additional evidence for purposes of disposition. The evidence received at disposition may be in the form of testimony from witnesses submitted during fact finding or at disposition, as well as written reports offered by youth, staff, professionals, counselors or consultants. Relevant documents contained in the youth's record may be admitted and considered. All written documents offered shall be provided to the parties three (3) days prior to the hearing unless otherwise waived.

(41)

Following announcement of the decision as to disposition, the hearings examiner shall inform the youth of his right to appeal any or all findings and decision made at the hearing.

(42)

Immediately following the close of the hearing, the hearings examiner shall give youth a copy of the Hearing Examiner's Report of a Level I Hearing, CCF-160.

(43)

A notice of appeal or request for a rehearing shall not suspend implementation of the hearings examiner's decision(s), which shall be effective when announced at the hearing.

(44)

As soon as possible following the conclusion of the hearing, the hearings examiner shall prepare a written report which shall include:

(A)

a summary of the evidence presented;

(B)

findings of fact, including the reliability of the evidence and the credibility of the witnesses, and the reasons for those findings;

(C)

conclusions of law;

(D)

an explanation of the dispositional decision; and

(E)

rulings made on motions and objections and the reasons therefor.

(45)

Copies of the hearings examiner's report shall be provided to counsel for the youth and the staff representative.

(46)

An edited copy of the hearings examiner's report is given to the youth.

§95.55.Level II Hearing Procedure.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish a [ the rules and ] procedure to be followed when the second highest level of due process is afforded a youth. The level II hearing procedure is appropriate due process in the following instances:

(1)

disciplinary transfer;

(2)

disciplinary extension in length of stay;

(3)

admission to a behavior management program (BMP);

(4)

admission to the aggression management program (AMP);

(5)

with a few exceptions in procedure:

(A)

admission to the Corsicana Stabilization Unit, Corsicana Residential Treatment Center; and

(B)

extension of time to treat a psychiatric disorder in connection with a Corsicana Stabilization Unit placement at the Corsicana Residential Treatment Center (as appropriate).

(b)

Applicability.

(1)

For the highest level of due process, see (GAP) §95.51 of this title (relating to Level I Hearing Procedure).

(2)

See (GAP) §95.11 of this title (relating to Disciplinary Transfer/Assigned Minimum Length of Stay Consequence).

(3)

See (GAP) § 95.17 of this title (relating to Behavior Management Program).

(4)

See (GAP) §95.21 of this title (relating to Aggression Management Program).

(5)

See (GAP) §87.67 of this title (relating to Corsicana Stabilization Unit).

(6)

For exceptions in procedures used for admission to Corsicana Stabilization Unit, Corsicana Residential Treatment Center, and extension of time to treat the psychiatric disorder, see (GAP) §95.71 of this title (relating to Mental Health Status Review Hearing Procedure).

(c)

Explanation of Terms Used. Preponderance of the evidence - a standard of proof meaning the greater weight and degree of credible evidence admitted at the hearing, e.g., whether the credible evidence makes it more likely than not that a particular proposition is true.

(d)

Procedure.

(1)

The designated primary service worker (PSW) or the administrative duty officer (ADO), shall request permission to schedule a hearing from the appropriate supervisor, institutional superintendent, halfway house superintendent, parole supervisor, or quality assurance administrator. The hearing must be scheduled as soon as practical but not later than seven days, excluding weekends and holidays, after the alleged violation. A delay of more than seven days in scheduling the hearing must be justified by documentation of circumstances, which made it impossible, impractical, or inappropriate to schedule the hearing. Failure to document circumstances making it impossible, impractical, or inappropriate to schedule the hearing may result in a dismissal or reversal of the decision of the hearing manager.

(2)

Failure to document circumstances making it impossible, impractical, or inappropriate to conduct the hearing may result in a dismissal or reversal of the decision of the hearing manager.

(3)

[ (2) ] If the youth is admitted to Institution Detention Program (IDP) pending a level II hearing, the [ A ] hearing shall be conducted within ten days from date of admission to detention. A delay of more than ten days in conducting the hearing must be justified by documentation of circumstances, which made it impossible, impractical, or inappropriate to conduct the hearing earlier. [ Failure to document circumstances making it impossible impractical or inappropriate to conduct the hearing may result in a dismissal or reversal of the decision of the hearing manager. ]

(4)

[ (3) ] The appropriate supervisor, institutional superintendent, halfway house superintendent, parole supervisor, or quality assurance administrator will appoint an impartial staff member to act as hearing manager.

(5)

[ (4) ] The hearing manager shall be a Texas Youth Commission (TYC) staff member who is trained to function as a hearing manager.

(A)

If the youth is currently assigned to an institution, the hearing manager shall be someone not directly responsible for supervising the youth.

(B)

If the youth is currently assigned to a halfway house, the hearing manager shall not be a member of the halfway house staff.

(C)

If the youth is currently assigned to a contract program, the hearing manager shall not be the TYC quality assurance specialist assigned to that youth.

(D)

If the youth is currently assigned to his or her home, the hearing manager shall not be the parole officer assigned to the youth's case.

(6)

[ (5) ] The youth's PSW shall be responsible for assembling all evidence and giving all notices required for the hearing.

(7)

[ (6) ] The youth shall be given written notice of his rights not less than 24 hours prior to the hearing. The youth's rights are:

(A)

the right to remain silent;

(B)

the right to be assisted by an advocate at the hearing;

(C)

the right to confront and cross-examine adverse witnesses who testify at the hearing;

(D)

the right to contest adverse evidence admitted at the hearing;

(E)

the right to call readily available witnesses and present readily available evidence on his own behalf at the hearing; and

(F)

the right to appeal [ from ] the results of the hearing. The youth's right to appeal cannot be waived.

(8)

[ (7) ] The youth and the youth's advocate shall be given written notice of the reasons for calling the hearing, the proposed action to be taken, and the evidence to be relied upon not less than 24 hours prior to the hearing. After receipt of the written notice and consultation with the advocate, the youth may waive the 24-hour notice period by agreeing, in writing, to an earlier hearing time.

(9)

[ (8) ] Reasonable efforts shall be made to inform the youth's parent(s) of the time and place of the hearing not less than 24 hours prior to the hearing.

(10)

[ (9) ] The hearing shall consist of two parts: fact-finding and disposition, and shall be held where the youth resides unless the hearing manager determines that some other site is more appropriate. During the fact-finding portion of the hearing, only evidence concerning the alleged misconduct may be considered; the youth's prior behavior shall not be considered unless disposition is reached.

(11)

[ (10) ] The youth shall be assisted by an informed and responsible advocate appointed by the hearing manager. In cases where the youth is not proficient in the English language, the appointed advocate shall be proficient in English as well as the primary language of the youth or an interpreter shall be used.

(12)

[ (11) ] The hearing shall be tape recorded and the recording shall be the official record of the hearing. The tape [ Tape ] recording and the hearing packet shall be preserved for six months following the hearing.

(13)

[ (12) ] The youth shall be present during the hearing unless he waives his presence or his behavior prevents the hearing from proceeding in an orderly and expeditious fashion.

(A)

A waiver of the youth's presence shall be in writing and signed by the youth and his advocate. If the youth does not sign the waiver for any reason, his presence is not waived.

(B)

If the youth waives his presence, the hearing may be conducted by teleconference.

(C)

If a youth is excluded for behavioral reasons, those reasons shall be documented in the hearing record.

(D)

A true plea cannot be entered on behalf of a youth who has waived his presence at the hearing.

(14)

[ (13) ] A victim who appears as a witness should be provided a waiting area where he is not likely to come in contact with the youth except during the hearing.

(15)

[ (14) ] Witnesses shall take an oath prior to testifying.

(16)

[ (15) ] The hearing manager, PSW , and advocate may question each witness in turn. The primary service worker and advocate may offer summation statements.

(17)

[ (16) ] To protect the confidential nature of the hearing, persons other than the youth, the youth's advocate, staff representative, and the youth's parent(s) may be excluded from the hearing room at the discretion of the hearings manager, however any person except the youth's advocate may be excluded from the hearing room if their presence causes undue disruption or delay of the hearing. The reason(s) for the exclusions are stated on the record.

(18)

[ (17) ] With the exception of the youth, any person designated as a witness may be excluded from the hearing room during the testimony of other witnesses and may be instructed to refrain from discussing their testimony with anyone until all the witnesses have been dismissed.

(19)

[ (18) ] The hearings manager may permit a witness to testify outside the presence of the youth if such appears reasonable and necessary to secure the testimony of the witness. If the youth is excluded from the hearing room during testimony, the advocate for the youth shall be present during the testimony and shall have the opportunity to review the testimony with the youth before questioning the witness.

(20)

[ (19) ] The youth shall not be called as a witness unless, after consulting with the advocate, he or she waives his right to remain silent on the record. Neither the hearing manager or the PSW may question the youth unless he/she waives the right to remain silent.

(A)

The youth's failure to testify shall not create a presumption against him.

(B)

A youth who waives his right to remain silent may only be questioned concerning those issues addressed by his testimony.

(21)

[ (20) ] All credible evidence may be considered, irrespective of its form.

(22)

[ (21) ] The standard of proof for all disputed issues is a preponderance of the evidence.

(23)

[ (22) ] The hearings manager may, for good cause, recess or continue the hearing for such period(s) of time as may be necessary to insure an informed and accurate fact-finding.

(24)

[ (23) ] The hearing manager will announce his findings of fact.

(25)

[ (24) ] If there is finding of true, the hearing manager shall proceed to disposition and order the disposition recommended by the staff representative unless the hearing manager finds extenuating circumstances.

(A)

A hearing manager's decision that a youth be transferred is final.

(B)

A hearing manager's decision to assign a disciplinary minimum length of stay (with or without a transfer) is final subject to approval by the appropriate director of juvenile corrections or designee. If, subsequent to the assignment of a disciplinary minimum length of stay, the appropriate director of juvenile corrections disapproves the assignment, neither the assignment nor a transfer may then occur.

(C)

A hearing manager's decision that a youth will be transferred and/or an assigned a length of stay in a disciplinary segregation program is final subject to an appeal by the youth.

(26)

[ (25) ] The hearing manager shall prepare the Hearing Manager's Report of a Level II Hearing form, CCF-170, of his findings which includes grounds for the hearing and evidence relied upon and the decision.

(27)

[ (26) ] The youth is informed of his/her right to appeal to the executive director at the close of the hearing. The pendency of an appeal shall not preclude implementation of the hearing manager's dispositional decision.

(28)

[ (27) ] A copy of the report (CCF-170) is given to the youth immediately following the close of the hearing.

§95.57.Level III Hearing Procedure.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish a hearing procedure as the appropriate informal due process for immediately imposing disciplinary consequences [ at the site of the youth's program ].

(b)

Applicability.

(1)

See (GAP) §95.13 of this title (relating to On-Site Disciplinary Consequences); and

(2)

when a level III hearing is conducted to determine admission or extension to the security program, also see the requirements of (GAP) §97.40 of this title (relating to Security Program).

(3)

when a level III hearing is conducted to determine minor disciplinary consequences for youth on parole according to (GAP)§95.15 of this title (relating to Parole Minor Disciplinary Consequences).

(c)

Prior to assigning an on-site consequence, staff shall follow basic minimum due process procedure to ensure that the youth is aware of the alleged misconduct and the consequence, and is given opportunity to speak on his or her behalf.

(d)

To initiate the level III hearing, the youth will be notified orally of the time and date of the hearing, the rule violation(s) and the recommended consequences to be imposed prior to implementing any action.

(e)

The youth has the right and will be given the opportunity to speak on his or her behalf regarding alleged misconduct or the appropriateness of the disciplinary measure.

(f)

If the level III hearing involves a decision for admission or an extension to the security program the youth will be appointed an advocate.

(g)

The administrator may consider any reasonably reliable information in reaching a decision regarding the truth of the youth's alleged misconduct and the appropriateness of the disciplinary consequences.

(h)

If the hearing administrator has reasonable grounds to believe the violation occurred, the appropriate disciplinary consequence may be imposed, unless there is a finding of extenuating circumstances to the commission of the violation.

(i)

The youth may appeal the disciplinary decision to the appropriate staff or team on grounds that:

(1)

he did not commit the violation as alleged; or

(2)

the disciplinary measure imposed was inappropriate; or

(3)

there were extenuating circumstances to the commission of the violation.

(j)

If the disciplinary decision is determined to be inappropriate it will be removed from the youth's behavioral record, and staff or team may determine some form of equitable relief for a youth who has already completed a disciplinary measure and/or has been adversely affected.

§95.59.Level IV Hearing Procedure.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish a procedure to determine whether justification exists to warrant holding a youth in detention pending charges or a hearing or trial [ when the hearing or a trial cannot be held within ten days of the detention ].

(b)

Applicability.

(1)

The level I due process procedures referred to herein are found in (GAP) §95.51 of this title (relating to Level I Hearing Procedure).

(2)

The level II due process procedures referred to herein are found in (GAP) §95.55 of this title (relating to Level II Hearing Procedure).

(c)

A detention review hearing procedure (level IV hearing) shall be held to determine whether justification exists to warrant holding a youth in detention pending a hearing or trial when a level I or II hearing or a trial is not held and continued detention is necessary and appropriate based stated criteria in (GAP) §97.41 of this title (relating to Community Detention) or (GAP) §97.43 of this title (relating to Institution Detention Program). The timing of the required due process level IV hearing is related to the facility in which the youth is detained. A detention review hearing will be conducted by Texas Youth Commission (TYC) [ TYC ] staff:

(1)

for youth [ assigned to a TYC institution ] held in the [ TYC ] institution detention program:

(A)

on or before 72 hours from admission to the institution detention program , or the next working day ; and

(B)

within ten working days of the previous detention review hearing.

(2)

for a youth held in a community detention facility the detention hearing will be held on or before the tenth working day of detention if; [ when the level I or II hearing cannot be held within ten days if the community detention staff does not hold a detention hearing. The hearing will be conducted ten working days from initial detention. ]

(A)

a detention hearing is not waived or conducted by the community for a TYC youth;

(B)

the level I or II hearing or trial cannot be held within ten working days; and

(C)

further detention is necessary and appropriate.

(d)

Procedure.

(1)

Decision Maker.

(A)

A parole supervisor, quality assurance administrator, halfway house superintendent, or an institution superintendent shall appoint a decision-maker, who will schedule the hearing.

(B)

The decision-maker shall be impartial and shall not have been the person who requested or admitted the youth to the security intake , or the institution detention program , or community detention .

(2)

Detention Review Hearings.

(A)

The youth has a right and shall be informed of his /her right to be represented:

(i)

in a level I hearing, a youth shall be represented by counsel. Counsel is:

(I)

an attorney obtained by the youth; or

(II)

the attorney appointed to represent the youth.

(ii)

in a level II hearing or pending a trial, a youth shall be represented by a youth advocate. If the trial attorney chooses to be the youth's advocate in a level IV hearing, the attorney [ he ] may represent the youth but is not required to do so.

(B)

The youth may waive the level IV hearing after being advised by an attorney (for a level I hearing) or an advocate (for a level II hearing or trial ).

(C)

The hearing shall be tape-recorded and the recording shall be the official record of the hearing. Tape recordings shall be preserved for six months following the hearing.

(D)

When a detention review is necessary due to the adjournment of a level I telephone hearing under (GAP) §95.53 of this title (relating to Level I Hearing by Telephone), the hearings examiner may conduct a level IV hearing following adjournment of the telephone hearing.

(E)

The staff responsible for calling for the level I or II hearing, or the Primary Service Worker (PSW) of the youth being held for trial must show cause to detain the youth pending the hearing or trial. The attorney or advocate may present evidence as to why the youth should not be detained.

(3)

The Decision.

(A)

The decision-maker shall base his/her [ his or her ] decision on criteria for detention. See criteria in (GAP) §97.41 of this (relating to Community Detention) and (GAP) §97.43 of this title (relating to Institution Detention Program).

(B)

If criteria are not met, the youth must be released to his /her assigned location.

(C)

If a level IV hearing is not timely held or is not properly waived, the youth shall be released to his/her assigned location.

(4)

Appeal.

(A)

The youth is notified in writing [ informed ] of his/her right to appeal [ to the executive director pursuant to (GAP) §93.53 of this title (relating to Appeal to Executive Director) ].

(i)

For youth held in an institution detention program, an automatic appeal to the executive director will be filed on the third and subsequent level IV hearing to determine if the institution detention criteria have been proven, even if the youth waives the level IV hearing. The PSW will initiate the automatic appeal.

(ii)

For all other youth in alternative detention facilities level IV hearing appeals will be to the executive director to (GAP) §93.53 of this title (relating to Appeal to Executive Director).

(B)

The pendency of an appeal shall not preclude implementation of the decision-maker's dispositional decision . [ ; ] The PSW shall expedite the appeal by immediately faxing the record and evidence to the complaint coordinator in the office of general counsel to review the appeal. [ however this appeal shall be expedited by the PSW by notifying the complaint coordinator in the office of general counsel of the appeal and forwarding the record and evidence by fax for consideration immediately from notice of appeal. ]

[ (C)

For youth assigned to a TYC institution, who are held in an institution detention program, an automatic appeal to the executive director will be filed on the third and subsequent level IV hearing to determine if the institution detention criteria have been proven. The PSW will initiate the automatic appeal.]

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 4, 2001.

TRD-200101974

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 20, 2001

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


Chapter 97. SECURITY AND CONTROL

Subchapter A. SECURITY AND CONTROL

37 TAC §97.37, §97.40

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §97.37, concerning Security Intake and §97.40, concerning Security Program. The amendment to §97.37 specifies that if admission criteria are met, the designated staff may admit youth to the security intake for up to 24 hours. If the criteria are not met or the policy and procedures are not followed, the youth must be released from the security unit. The amendment also allows a youth to appeal his/her admission through the youth complaint system. All specific operation procedures were removed from the rule section and placed in the management requirements. Other minor grammatical changes were also made to the rule. The amendment to §97.40 clarifies the time frame for which admission decisions must be reviewed. Included throughout the rule is the provision for a youth to be returned to general population if the criteria are not met and policy and procedures are not followed. Other changes include that the admission criteria must be found true with no extenuating circumstances in order for a youth to be admitted into the security program. All youth will be notified in writing the outcome of an 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. Other grammatical changes were made to make language consistent throughout the rule.

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 a clearer definition of the intent of the rule as well as establish guidelines for putting the rule into effect and clarifying expectations of operating the security program and added provisions of due process for youth. 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 amendments are proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.045, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to operate programs and facilities.

The proposed rules affect the Human Resource Code, §61.034.

§§97.37.Security Intake [ Unit ].

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish criteria and procedure for segregating youth from the general population under certain circumstances. Each Texas Youth Commission (TYC) operated high restriction facility or secure contract program provides for segregation programs. Placement in a segregation program may be imposed only in specific situations for specified periods of time. Youth who may be eligible for a placement in a segregation program may be initially referred to the security intake. Such youth are placed into a secure setting that is controlled exclusively by staff.

(b)

Applicability. This rule does not apply to:

(1)

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);

(2)

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

(3)

the use of the same or adjacent space when used specifically as a disciplinary segregation program. See (GAP) §95.17 of this title (relating to Behavior Management Program);

(4)

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

(5)

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

(c)

Referral and Admission Criteria. A youth may be admitted to security intake if there is reason to believe, based on overt acts by the youth, and/or under the following circumstances:

(1)

the youth is a serious and continuing escape risk; or

(2)

the youth is a serious and immediate physical danger to himself/herself [ himself or herself ] or others and staff cannot protect the youth or others except by referring the youth to security intake; or

(3)

confinement is necessary to prevent imminent and substantial destruction of property; or

(4)

confinement is necessary to control behavior that creates disruption of the youth's current program; or

(5)

the youth requests confinement, unless campus-wide self referrals have been disallowed by the superintendent or designee; or

(6)

staff requests detention for a youth.

(d)

Referral and Admission Process.

(1)

A youth may be referred to the security intake by staff or at the youth's own request.

(2)

A youth may be held in security intake on referral for up to one hour.

(3)

The superintendent or designee may extend the one-hour time limit up to one additional hour if requested and necessary in order to make a proper decision.

(4)

Within one hour (or two hours if an extension has been granted) of the youth's arrival at security intake, the designated staff shall determine whether criteria for admission have been met. If admission criteria are met, designated staff may admit youth to the security intake for up to 24 hours.

(5)

Designated staff include the superintendent, assistant superintendent, administrative duty officer (ADO), program administrator (PA), institution placement coordinator (IPC), principal, psychologist, [ a ] caseworker, or [ a ] designated juvenile correctional officer (JCO) V trained in the security intake policy and procedure to admit youth to the security intake program. On the late night shift, a JCO IV trained in the security intake admission policy and procedure may admit a youth to security intake. The director of security may not admit a youth to security intake.

(6)

The director of security or designee will review all admission decisions within one working day to determine if admission criteria have been met. If the criteria are not met or policy and procedures are not followed, the youth will be released from the security unit. The director of security or designee shall not have been involved in the admission decision.

(7)

A youth may appeal the admission decision to the security intake through the youth complaint system as defined in (GAP) §93.31 of this title (relating to Complaint Resolution System).

[(7)

As a result of the review, staff may release youth to general population or admit the youth to the security intake unit for up to 24 hours.]

[(8)

The appeal of an admission to security intake will be to the superintendent, assistant superintendent or the administrative duty officer (ADO) as long as they were not the admitting staff.]

(e)

Security Intake Termination/Other Segregation Programs.

(1)

Within 24 hours of admission to security intake, a youth shall be:

(A)

released to the general population; or

(B)

admitted to one of the following programs:

(i)

security program - if it is determined that there are reasonable grounds to believe one or more of the security program admission criteria is occurring. See (GAP) §97.40 of this title (relating to Security Program);

(ii)

institution detention program - if it is determined that there are reasonable grounds to believe one or more of the institution detention admission criteria is occurring. See (GAP) §97.43 of this title (relating to Institution Detention Program).

(2)

Youth may be released by the director of security or any designated staff authorized to admit youth in this policy.

(f)

Restrictions.

(1)

Segregation shall not be used for retribution at any time.

(2)

No minimum length of time in security intake shall be imposed.

(3)

The superintendent or designee may disallow the self-referrals campus-wide at his/her [ his or her ] discretion.

[(g)

Program Requirements.]

[(1)

Doors of individual security intake rooms may be locked during the process of referral to security intake, and will be locked following admission.]

[(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 of 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.]

§§97.40.Security Program.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to provide for a security program in Texas Youth Commission (TYC) institutions and secure contract programs for the placement of out of control youth when specific criteria are met and to establish program operation requirements. Assurance that youth is sufficiently in control to be returned to general population is affirmed by compliance with the standardized program or rules of the security program which are supplied to the youth upon admission to security intake.

(b)

Applicability.

(1)

This rule does not apply to:

(A)

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);

(B)

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);

(C)

the use of the same or adjacent space when used specifically as disciplinary segregation. See (GAP) §95.17 of this title (relating to Behavior Management Program);

(D)

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

(E)

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

(2)

When a level III hearing is conducted to determine admission or an extension to the security program, this policy needs to be read in conjunction with (GAP) §95.57 of this title (relating to Level III Hearing Procedure).

(c)

Admission Criteria. A youth may be admitted to the security program if there is reason to believe, based on overt acts by the youth, and/or under the following circumstances:

(1)

the youth is a serious and continuing escape risk; or

(2)

the youth is a serious and immediate physical danger to himself/herself [ himself or herself ] or others and staff cannot protect the youth or others except by admitting the youth to security program; or

(3)

the confinement is necessary to prevent imminent and substantial destruction of property; or

(4)

the confinement is necessary to control behavior that creates disruption of the youth's current program; or

(5)

the youth is not complying with the standardized program or rules of the security unit while in security intake or in the security program; or

(6)

upon the youth's own request, unless campus-wide self referral has been disallowed by the superintendent or designee.

(d)

Admission Process.

(1)

A decision-maker is appointed by the superintendent to conduct a level III hearing to determine whether admission criteria have been met. As a result of the hearing, the youth shall be either:

(A)

released to the general population; or

(B)

admitted to the security program for up to 24 hours.

(2)

The following staff may be appointed to be the decision-maker: superintendent, assistant superintendent, administrative duty officer (ADO), program administrator (PA), institution placement coordinator (IPC), principal, psychologist, [ a ] caseworker, or [ a ] designated juvenile correctional officer (JCO) V trained in the security policy and procedure to admit youth to the program. The director of security may not admit a youth to security.

(3)

Based upon a finding of true to the admission criteria, and no extenuating circumstances, the youth will be admitted into the security program.

(4)

[ (3) ] The director of security or designee will review all admission decisions within one working day to determine if admission criteria have been met. If criteria have not been met or policy and procedures not followed, the youth will be returned to the general population. The director of security or designee shall not have been involved in the level III hearing.

[(4)

Based upon a finding of true to the admission criteria, and no extenuating circumstances, the youth will be admitted into the security program.]

(5)

The youth will be notified in writing of his/her [ his or her ] right to appeal [ in writing ]. The appeal of an admission to the security program will be to the superintendent, assistant superintendent or the ADO as long as they were not the decision-maker for admission. The youth is notified in writing of the outcome of the appeal.

(6)

The youth's advocate will be assigned by the decision-maker for the level III due process hearing. Whenever practical, the advocate may be a person chosen by the youth.

(7)

The youth may be released from the security program by the director of security or designated staff authorized to admit youth in this policy.

(e)

Restrictions.

(1)

A youth shall not remain in the security program more than 24 hours from admission to the program solely on the basis of the behavior for which he was admitted to security intake or security program .

(2)

A youth shall not remain in the security program more than 24 hours from admission without the required extended stay due process hearing protections.

(f)

Extended Stay Requirements.

(1)

A youth's stay in the security program may be extended beyond the 24 hours from admission to the program if there are reasonable grounds to believe that one of the admission criteria to the security program is continuing.

(2)

Extended confinement due process protections will be provided to determine whether reasonable grounds exist for the youth to remain in the security program longer than 24 hours.

(A)

A level III hearing is afforded the youth before security program confinement is extended past 24 hours.

(B)

A decision-maker is appointed by the superintendent to determine the reasons for the extended confinement and make a decision on the facts presented.

(C)

The following staff may be appointed to be the decision-maker: superintendent, assistant superintendent, ADO [ administrative duty officer (ADO) ], PA [ program administrator (PA) ], IPC [ institution placement coordinator (IPC) ], principal, psychologist, [ a ] caseworker, or [ a ] designated JCO V [ juvenile correctional officer (JCO) V ] trained in the security policy and procedure to extend youth in the program. The director of security may not be the decision-maker.

(D)

Based upon a finding of true to the admission criteria, and no extenuating circumstances, the youth's stay in the security program may be extended up to an additional 24 hours.

(E)

[ (D) ] The director of security or designee will review [ approve ] the 24-hour extension decision within one working day to determine if admission criteria continue to exist based on current behavior. If criteria have not been met or policy and procedures have not been followed, the youth will be returned to the general population. The director of security or designee shall not have been involved in the level III hearing.

[ (E)

Based upon a finding of true to the admission criteria, and no extenuating circumstances, the youth's stay in the security program may be extended up to an additional 24 hours.]

(F)

The youth will be notified in writing of his/her [ his or her ] right to appeal. The appeal of an extension to the security program will be to the superintendent, assistant superintendent or the ADO as long as they were not the decision-maker for admission or extension. The youth is notified in writing of the outcome of the appeal.

(3)

After the initial level III due process extension hearing, up to five subsequent level III hearings may be conducted as set forth in paragraph (2) of this subsection, every 24 hours thereafter for additional extensions of up to 24 hours for up to 168 hours from admission into the security program.

(4)

After 168 hours, a due process extension level III hearing will be conducted as set forth in paragraph (2) of this subsection for an additional extension of up to 72 hours for up to 240 hours from admission into the security program.

(A)

The appropriate director of juvenile corrections will review [ approve ] the 72-hour extension decision within one working day to determine if admission criteria continue to exist based on current behavior. If the criteria have not been met or policy and procedures have not been followed, the youth will be returned to the general population.

(B)

The youth will be notified in writing of his/her right to appeal. The extension decision [ approved by the director of juvenile corrections ] may be appealed to the assistant deputy executive director for juvenile corrections and the youth is notified in writing of the outcome of the appeal.

(5)

After 240 hours, a due process extension level III hearing will be conducted as set forth in paragraph (2) of this subsection every 72 hours thereafter for only two additional extensions of up to 72 hours each.

(A)

The assistant deputy executive director for juvenile corrections will review [ approve ] the 72-hour extension decision within one working day if admission criteria continue to exist based on current behavior. If the criteria have not been met or policy and procedures not followed, the youth will be returned to the general population.

(B)

The youth will be notified in writing of his/her right to appeal. The extension [Extension] decisions [ approved by the assistant deputy executive director for juvenile corrections ] may be appealed to the deputy executive director[ , ] and the youth is notified in writing of the outcome of the appeal.

(6)

After 384 hours (16 days), the youth shall be either released back to the general population or the assistant deputy executive director for juvenile corrections must recommend other alternatives [ other alternatives must be recommended by the assistant deputy executive director for juvenile corrections ].

(7)

If [ admission decision or ] due process extension hearings are not timely held [ or approved ] the youth shall be released from the security program.

[(g)

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 April 4, 2001.

TRD-200101977

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 20, 2001

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


37 TAC §97.41

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §97.41, concerning Community Detention. The amendment to the section specifies that a hearing is to be scheduled as soon as practical but no later than seven days from the date of the alleged violation. When a due process hearing date and time has been set, the hearing is considered scheduled. Additional clarification was made to the rule concerning detention hearings. TYC staff in the community must conduct a detention hearing, if a level I or II hearing cannot be held within ten working days and the county detention staff has not held a hearing. Other changes include minor grammatical changes to maintain language consistency and clarify expectations of the rule.

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 provide a greater accountability for staff to ensure due process is followed for youth being detained. 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, §61.091, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to cooperate with other agencies consistent with their proper function.

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

§97.41.Community Detention.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish:

(1)

criteria for detaining youth in detention facilities in the community (juvenile or adult); and

(2)

expectations for interaction between Texas Youth Commission (TYC) [ TYC ] staff and community detention staff when youth in TYC custody are detained in community detention facilities.

(b)

Applicability.

(1)

This rule applies to TYC youth admitted to community detention facilities.

(2)

This rule does not apply to TYC youth admitted to a TYC institution detention program. See (GAP) §97.43 of this title (relating to Institution Detention Program).

(c)

Explanation of Terms Used.

(1)

Detention Hearing - the court hearing required and described in the Texas Family Code to determine whether conditions exist to justify a detention order.

(2)

Detention Review Hearing - the TYC hearing required by this policy, held in lieu of a detention hearing for the same purpose , also referred to as the level IV hearing.

(3)

Community Detention Facilities - refers to the local detention facilities designed for either juveniles or for adults including jail . References to community staff mean staff who work at community detention facilities.

(d)

Youth in TYC custody, who are age 17 and younger, may be referred to juvenile community detention facilities with the consent of local authorities. Youth in TYC custody who have escaped/absconded from a TYC placement or violated a condition of parole who are age 17 and older may be referred to detention in an adult jail facility.

(e)

TYC will utilize community detention facilities in a manner consistent with local policies. If community detention is not available, a TYC youth may be detained in a TYC institution detention program of a TYC training school in lieu of community detention in accordance with (GAP) §97.43 of this title (relating to Institution Detention Program). Detention admission in a training school may be sought only if a local community detention facility is not available.

(f)

Criteria for Detention.

(1)

A youth may be detained when there are reasonable grounds to believe the youth engaged in criminal behavior delinquent conduct, a major rule violation, or conduct indicating a need for supervision and one of the following criteria is met:

(A)

the youth is likely to abscond and not appear at a disciplinary hearing;

(B)

suitable supervision, care, or protection for the youth is not being provided by the parent or guardian to ensure protection of the public safety or prevention of youth self-injury and a less restrictive temporary shelter is not available or is inappropriate; or

(C)

the youth is accused of committing a felony offense and may be dangerous to himself /herself or others if released.

(2)

Youth shall not be placed in detention for the purpose of punishment.

(3)

A hearing will be scheduled as soon as practical but no later than seven days, excluding weekends and holidays, from the date of the alleged violation. A due process hearing or trial is considered to be scheduled if a due process hearing date and time has been set or trial is pending.

(g)

Detention Hearing.

(1)

If a detention hearing [ hearings ] is [ are ] conducted or waived pursuant to the Family Code by the community for TYC youth that is held in a community detention facility, TYC staff will participate as requested by the community and no other action [ hearing ] is necessary.

(2)

If a detention hearing is not conducted by the community for a TYC youth that is held in a community detention facility and a level I or II hearing cannot be held within ten working days and further detention is necessary and appropriate, a TYC staff shall hold a detention review hearing (level IV hearing) on or before the tenth working day of detention. See (GAP) §95.59 of this title (relating to Level IV Hearing Procedure).

[ (2)

If detention hearings are not conducted by the community for a TYC youth that is held in a community detention facility, TYC staff shall hold a detention review hearing (level IV hearing) on or before the tenth day of detention when a level I or II hearing cannot be held within ten days and further detention is necessary and appropriate. See (GAP) §95.59 of this title (relating to Level IV Hearing Procedure).]

(h)

Disposition.

(1)

If the parole officer or other referring [ local TYC ] staff responsible for the youth determines the youth has not committed any offense or is detained in [ from ] a local detention facility and local authorities have not ordered the youth's detention, arrangements are made for immediate return to the TYC facility or other appropriate placement.

(2)

Even if TYC staff receives information that additional criminal or delinquent proceedings against the youth are planned, pending, or anticipated by local authorities, TYC may continue to hold the youth in detention and may schedule and hold an administrative due process hearing.

(i)

Procedure.

(1)

Upon notification by detention staff, the [ a ] referring [ TYC ] staff will confirm whether the youth is under TYC authority , obtain details of the allegations regarding behavior and notify the appropriate facility or person responsible for the youth [ assigned placement facility of the detention, if appropriate, and the parole supervisor of the allegations regarding behavior ].

(2)

If the parole officer or other staff determines that there is probable cause to believe that offenses have been committed and that detention is warranted, he/she [ he or she ] will hold a detention review conference with the parole supervisor or other TYC program administrator to justify and obtain approval for having the youth held in detention. The conference must be held no later than the second working day after the youth is detained unless the youth is detained on a Friday or Saturday, then on the first working day after the youth is detained.

(3)

The referring [ TYC ] staff will visit detained youth daily when [ where ] possible. No more than three days may pass without a contact by the staff responsible for the youth.

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 4, 2001.

TRD-200101972

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 20, 2001

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


37 TAC §97.43

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §97.43, concerning Institution Detention Program. The amendment to the section includes several minor grammatical changes and changes to phrases that are used throughout other rules to ensure consistency in language. Changes also included a provision for a youth to appeal admission into the institution detention program. Sentence structure was also changed to clarify criteria for admission and reduce repetitiveness. Amending the section also included incorporating when a hearing must be scheduled and the timelines for scheduling. A change was also made to designate which staff person was responsible for holding a detention hearing. A section was added to clarify criteria for release from the institution detention program. All program requirements were deleted from the rule and placed in the management section as these are operational guidelines and procedures for implementation.

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 increased accountability for staff and youth to adhere to program guidelines and better definition of the specific programs developed to help discipline negative behavior. 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, §61.045, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to operate programs in facilities that are charged with custody and rehabilitation of youth.

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

§97.43.Institution Detention Program.

(a)

Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish criteria and procedures for detaining appropriate Texas Youth Commission (TYC) youth in an Institution Detention Program (IDP) operated within each TYC institution or secure contract program, who have charges against them pending or filed, or are awaiting a due process hearing or trial, or [ are ] awaiting transportation subsequent to a due process hearing or trial.

(b)

Applicability.

(1)

This rule applies to TYC youth detained in TYC operated institutions or secure contract programs for pre-hearing or post-hearing pending transportation.

(2)

This rule does not apply to:

(A)

TYC youth detained in community detention facilities. See (GAP) §97.41 of this title (relating to Community Detention);

(B)

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);

(C)

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);

(D)

the use of the same or adjacent space when used specifically as disciplinary segregation. See (GAP) §95.17 of this title (relating to Behavior Management Program);

(E)

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

(F)

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

(c)

Explanation of Terms Used. Detention Review Hearing - the TYC level IV hearing required by this policy.

(d)

Criteria for Placement in an Institution Detention Program.

(1)

Designated staff will conduct a review to determine whether admission criteria have been met.

(2)

Admission Criteria for Detention Up To 72 Hours .

(A)

A youth assigned to a [ an ] TYC operated institution may be admitted to the IDP program (for up to 72 hours):

(i)

if the youth is awaiting transportation subsequent to a due process hearing or trial; or

(ii)

if a due process hearing or trial has been requested in writing or charges are pending or have been filed; and

(iii)

there are reasonable grounds to believe the youth has committed a violation; and

(iv)

one of the following applies:

(I)

suitable alternative placement within the facility is unavailable due to on-going behavior of the youth that creates disruption of the routine of the youth's current program; or

(II)

the youth is likely to interfere with the hearing or trial process; or

(III)

the youth represents a danger to himself /herself or others; or

(IV)

the youth has escaped or attempted escape as defined in (GAP) §97.29 of this title (relating to Escape/Abscondence and Apprehension).

(B)

A youth who is assigned to a placement other than a TYC operated institution or secure contract program may be detained in a TYC operated IDP ( up to [ beyond ] 72 hours):

(i)

if a due process [ level ]hearing or trial has been requested in writing; and

(ii)

based on current behavior or circumstances, and all detention criteria must have been met as defined in (GAP) §97.41 of this title (relating to Community Detention)[ have been met ].

(C)

A youth may appeal the admission decision to the IDP through the youth complaint system as defined in (GAP) §93.31 of this title (relating to Complaint Resolution System).

(3)

Admission Criteria for Detention Beyond 72 Hours.

(A)

A youth who is assigned to a TYC operated institution may be detained in the IDP beyond 72 hours[ : ] based on current behavior or circumstances, and all other criteria in paragraph (2) of this subsection have been met.

[ (i)

if a due process hearing or trial has been scheduled or charges are pending or have been filed; and]

[ (ii)

based on current behavior or circumstances, all other criteria in paragraph (2) of this subsection have been met.]

(B)

A youth who is assigned to a placement other than a TYC operated institution may be detained in a TYC operated IDP beyond 72 hours [ (beyond 72 hours) ] based on current behavior or circumstances and all detention criteria in (GAP) §97.41 of this title (relating to Community Detention) have been met :

[ (i)

if a due process hearing or trial has been scheduled or charges are pending or have been filed; and]

[ (ii)

based on current behavior or circumstances, all detention criteria in (GAP) §97.41 of this title (relating to Community Detention) have been met.]

(4)

A hearing will be scheduled as soon as practical but no later than seven days, excluding weekends and holidays, from the date of the alleged violation.

(A)

[ (C) ] A due process hearing or trial is considered to be scheduled if a due process hearing date and time has been set or trial is pending.

(B)

[ (D) ] A youth whose due process hearing or trial has been held may be detained without a level IV hearing when the youth is waiting for transportation:

(i)

to TDCJ, ID following a transfer hearing; or

(ii)

to a different placement following a level I or II hearing.

(C)

Transportation should be arranged immediately to take place within 72 hours and anything past that must have superintendent's approval.

(e)

Detention Hearings Required for Any Youth Held in an Institution Detention Program.

(1)

A youth, who meets admission criteria, may be detained in an IDP for up to 72 hours.

(2)

For extensions beyond 72 hours an initial detention review hearing (level IV hearing) must be held on or before 72 hours from admission to the IDP , or the next working day .

(3)

Subsequent detention review hearings must be held within ten working days from the previous detention review hearing when a due process [ level ] hearing or trial is not held and continued detention is necessary and appropriate based upon current behavior or circumstances that meet criteria unless youth is under indictment pending trial. See (GAP) §95.59 of this title (relating to Level IV Hearing Procedure).

(4)

A detention review hearing is not required for youth detained pending transportation pursuant to subsection (d)(3)(D) of this section.

(5)

Institution or a designated community staff will hold the required level IV detention review hearings. The primary service worker (PSW) for youth not assigned to an institution, will coordinate with institution staff to ensure that hearings are timely held or waived properly.

(6)

[ (5) ] If a level IV hearing is not timely held or is not properly waived, the youth shall be released from the IDP.

[ (6)

Institution or a designated community staff will hold the required level IV detention review hearings. The primary service worker (PSW) for youth not assigned to an institution, will coordinate with institution staff to ensure that hearings are held timely or waived properly.]

(7)

The youth is notify in writing [ informed ] of his/her right to appeal the level IV hearing [ to the executive director pursuant to (GAP) 93.53 of this title (relating to Appeal to Executive Director) ].

[ (f)

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.]

(f)

[ (g) ] Release from institution detention is determined by the outcome of a hearing or trial or upon the decision not to hold a hearing. If the youth is pending transportation, the youth is released from detention upon transport.

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 4, 2001.

TRD-200101973

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 20, 2001

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


Part 6. TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Chapter 151. GENERAL PROVISIONS

37 TAC §151.73

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice proposes new §151.73 concerning Texas Board of Criminal Justice vehicle assignments. The purpose of this new section is for all Agency vehicles to be assigned to the motor pool and be available for check out.

David P. McNutt, Deputy Director for Administrative Services of the Department of Criminal Justice, has determined that for each year of the first five-year period the new section will be in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the new section as proposed.

Mr. McNutt also has determined that for each year of the first five year period the new section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the section as proposed will be the availability of all Agency vehicles to administrative or executive employees on a regular basis in order to carry out the needs and mission of the Agency. There will be no effect on small businesses or micro-businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons required to comply with the new section as proposed.

Comments should be directed to Carl Reynolds, General Counsel, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, P.O. Box 13084, Austin, Texas 78711, carl.reynolds@tdcj.state.tx.us. Written comments from the general public should be received within 30 days of the publication of this proposal.

The new section is proposed under Texas Government Code, §492.013, which grants general rulemaking authority to the Board and §2171.1045, which specifically authorizes this section.

Cross Reference to Statute: Texas Government Code, §2171.1045.

§151.73.Texas Board of Criminal Justice Vehicle Assignments.

(a)

It is the policy of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice that each agency vehicle, with the exception of a vehicle assigned to a field employee, be assigned to the Agency motor pool and be available for check out.

(b)

The Agency may assign a vehicle to an individual administrative or executive employee on a regular or everyday basis, only if the agency makes a written documented finding that the assignment is critical to the needs and mission of the agency, such as vehicles used for law enforcement purposes and vehicles assigned to positions which are required to respond to emergency situations.

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 9, 2001.

TRD-200102013

Carl Reynolds

General Counsel

Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 20, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 463-9693


Chapter 152. INSTITUTIONAL DIVISION

Subchapter B. MAXIMUM SYSTEM CAPACITY OF THE INSTITUTIONAL DIVISION

37 TAC §152.12

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice proposes an amendment to §152.12 concerning the unit inmate capacity of TDCJ Institutional Division facilities, consistent with state law governing appreciable increases or reductions in such capacity. The amendment concerns reductions in capacity in Institutional Division facilities that can be effected indefinitely by the Executive Director, for the purpose of deactivating housing areas in the event of excess capacity.

David P. McNutt, Director for Financial Services of the Department of Criminal Justice, has determined that for each year of the first five year period the amendment will be in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the amendment as proposed.

Mr. McNutt also has determined that for each year of the first five year period the amendment is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the amendment will be to increase the potential for unit safety and public safety by decreasing the number of inmates required to be housed in units that may lack sufficient staff to be fully operational. There will be no effect on small businesses or micro-businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons required to comply with the amendment as proposed.

Comments should be directed to Carl Reynolds, General Counsel, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, P.O. Box 13084, Austin, Texas 78711, or carl.reynolds@tdcj.state.tx.us. Written comments from the general public should be received within 30 days of the publication of this proposal. In accordance with Texas Government Code §499.103, notice to inmates in the affected facilities will also occur.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Government Code, §492.013, which grants general rulemaking authority to the Board; and Government Code Chapter 499, Subchapter E, Unit and System Capacity.

Cross Reference to Statute: §499.107(b) and (c).

§152.12.Methodology for Changing [ the ] Maximum Unit and System Population.

(a) - (c)

(No change.)

(d)

The maximum population of any existing institutional division facility or of any institutional division facility added to capacity hereafter may be reduced by the executive director of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (executive director) for the limited purpose of allowing single-cell flexibility or to make renovations and repairs, for a period up to 60 days, as permitted by the Texas Government Code, §499.107(c). The maximum capacity of institutional division units may be indefinitely reduced by the executive director, for the purpose of deactivating housing areas and increasing the sufficiency of staff in the remaining areas of the unit, in the event of excess capacity.

(e) - (j)

(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 April 9, 2001.

TRD-200102014

Carl Reynolds

General Counsel

Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Earliest possible date of adoption: May 20, 2001

For further information, please call: (512) 463-9693