TITLE 37.PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS

Part 3. TEXAS YOUTH COMMISSION

Chapter 81. INTERACTION WITH THE PUBLIC

37 TAC §81.45

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §81.45, concerning Volunteers and Volunteer Council. The amendment to the section changes the position title from chief of volunteer services to administrator of community relations.

Don McCullough, 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 change in the job title to be consistent with job duties. 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, §61.096 Liability of Volunteers, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to use the resources provided by community volunteers.

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

§81.45.Volunteers and Volunteer Council.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish a volunteer program to expand youth opportunities for educational and recreational experiences and to provide youth with increased social interactions.

(b) Volunteer Council. A volunteer council will be located in each city where a TYC facility exists. Volunteer councils will be organized as nonprofit corporations with tax exempt status. The councils' role includes informing the community about TYC, advising TYC of community interests and concerns, advocating for juveniles, and assisting in providing resources for juveniles.

(c) Volunteer Program.

(1) The administrator of community relations [ chief of volunteer services ] shall administer TYC volunteer programs.

(2) Volunteers will be recruited, screened, and selected from all cultural and socioeconomic segments of the community.

(3) Volunteers will be oriented to the program and receive training before being assigned to work with youth.

(4) Volunteers must agree in writing to abide by federal, state and agency laws, policies and rules of confidentiality.

(5) Volunteers will be systematically, officially registered and provided proper identification as volunteers.

(6) Volunteers shall not perform professional services for TYC unless certified or licensed to perform those services.

(d) Youth as Volunteers. Qualified youth will be encouraged and assisted in participating in volunteer activities in the community.

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 June 14, 2002.

TRD-200203709

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


Chapter 85. ADMISSION AND PLACEMENT

Subchapter B. PLACEMENT PLANNING

37 TAC §85.45

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §85.45, concerning Parole of Undocumented Foreign Nationals. The amendment to the section makes minor changes for clarification and simplifies a procedure of notification to juvenile courts concerning the status of juveniles under the Texas Youth Commission's authority.

Don McCullough, 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 streamlining notification processes for more efficient work. 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, §61.081, Release Under Supervision, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to release youth under supervision with proper notification to the committing court.

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

§85.45.Parole of Undocumented Foreign Nationals.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish a procedure whereby Texas Youth Commission (TYC) works with the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) for parole release of youth who are undocumented foreign nationals.

(b) Applicability. Procedures herein apply to all programs releasing TYC youth who are undocumented nationals.

(c) Explanation of Terms Used. Undocumented Foreign Nationals - youth who do not have legal residence in the United States as determined by the INS.

(d) All residential programs are required to notify the INS of the presence of an undocumented foreign national youth at the facility.

(e) Undocumented foreign nationals shall not be considered for parole release unless and until the INS has determined that the youth will not be deported. Refer to (GAP) §85.43 of this title [ section ] (relating to Home Placement). Undocumented foreign nationals will not be placed in a minimum restriction parole location (home or home substitute) until a copy of the referral letter from the residential program to INS is received by the assigned parole officer.

(f) In anticipation of completion of required release criteria and not less than 30 days prior to anticipated release, the releasing authority shall inform INS of the pending release of any undocumented foreign national youth and request a residency and deportation status determination. Thirty (30) days before parole release the TYC staff of the releasing program shall:

(1) complete the parole release packet and schedule a date for release;

(2) send to the INS in the region, written notice of the release date, request for confirmation of the date and of transportation, and request that INS meet with the youth prior to the date and send a copy of the notice to the assigned parole officer;

(3) notify the assigned parole officer and appropriate consulate of release arrangements; and send the family notification of parole release, and make reasonable attempts to provide translation where necessary; and

(4) send notification of parole release to the appropriate authorities . [ , Notification to Juvenile Court form, CCF-181. ]

(g) On the day of parole release, INS is responsible for transporting the youth to a port of entry.

(h) If the release of a youth is canceled for any reason, the releasing program shall immediately notify INS, parole officer, and other affected parties.

(i) If the youth is not deported by INS, the parole office and institutional placement coordinator will proceed with placement options.

(j) The case of a deported youth must be transferred to a designated caseload and supervised by a parole officer responsible for the youth in the committing county.

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 June 11, 2002.

TRD-200203650

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


Chapter 87. TREATMENT

Subchapter A. PROGRAM PLANNING

37 TAC §87.15

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §87.15, concerning Title IV-E Foster Care Youth. The amendment to the section will make one minor grammatical correction.

Don McCullough, 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 that TYC will participate in the federal foster care funding program. 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, §61.0761 Family Programs, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to participate in programs that will benefit youth.

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

§87.15.Title IV-E Foster Care Youth

(a) Texas Youth Commission (TYC) staff shall ensure that the agency participates in the Federal Title IV-E foster care funding program in compliance with all federal and state regulations [ regualtions ] set by the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services, the agency administering the program.

(b) All TYC youth placed in halfway houses or contract care facilities will be screened for eligibility for the Title IV-E program.

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 June 14, 2002.

TRD-200203706

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


Subchapter B. SPECIAL NEEDS OFFENDER PROGRAMS

37 TAC §87.91

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the Texas Youth Commission or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes the repeal of §87.91, concerning Family Reintegration of Sex Offenders. The section will be repealed in order to allow for a new section.

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

Mr. McCullough also has determined that for each year of the first five years the repeal is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the repeal will be an improved release process for reintegrating sex offenders into the community. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the repeal as proposed. No private real property rights are affected by adoption of the repeal.

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 repeal is proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.0813 Sex Offender Counseling and Treatment, which provides TYC with the authority to treat and release under supervision, youth classified as sex offenders.

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

§87.91.Family Reintegration of Sex Offenders.

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 June 14, 2002.

TRD-200203708

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


37 TAC §87.91

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes new §87.91, concerning Family Reintegration of Sex Offenders. The new section has been rewritten to include the purpose of the rule is to provide protection for victims or potential victims when a documented sex offender returns to the home where the victim or potential victim resides. The purpose was also changed to include that the rule applies to offenders who have been adjudicated for a sexual offense or as a result of a plea bargain for the arrest of a sexual offense. Also included in this section are explanation of terms used to define family, victim, and potential victim. Nine new requirements for family reintegration have been added to this policy.

Don McCullough, 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 an improved system of reintegrating sex offenders into the community as well as providing protection to victims and potential victims. 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 new section is proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.0813 Sex Offender Counseling and Treatment, which provides TYC with the authority to provide counseling and specific release conditions for juvenile sex offenders.

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

§87.91.Family Reintegration of Sex Offenders.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to provide protection for the victim or potential victim of documented sex offenders who are returning home and the victim or potential victim lives in the home. This rule also applies to offenders who have been adjudicated for a sexual offense or as a result of a plea bargain for the arrest of a sexual offense.

(b) Explanation of Terms Used.

(1) Family - As used herein, shall refer to the family members who live in the designated home placement, including the victim or potential victim(s).

(2) Victim - shall refer to a person who, as the result of the sexual offense, suffers a pecuniary loss, personal injury, or harm.

(3) Potential Victim - shall refer to a person who has a profile similar to the victim of the delinquent's sexual offense, such as gender, age, etc., or who has a profile that triggers the delinquent's deviant or abusive sexual arousal patterns.

(c) Requirements for Family Reintegration

(1) The parole officer conducts a home evaluation and completes a checklist of risk factors associated with sexual re-offending.

(2) The primary service worker (PSW) contacts the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services (TDPRS) 90 days prior to the youth's scheduled release to determine whether there is an open or closed Child Protective Service (CPS) case and to consider any concerns of CPS staff related to the victim or other vulnerable children in the home.

(3) If the victim is in treatment, the PSW notifies the victim's therapist that the offender is returning to the home where the victim resides.

(4) The offender has demonstrated sufficient progress in treatment to be ready to return home as evidenced by the completion of Phase 4 of the Resocialization Program and/or completion of the Sex Offender Treatment Program (SOTP).

(5) The offender must have provided the family with his/her success plan that contains specific plans to cope with high-risk situations that will ensure the victim/potential victim's safety in the home.

(6) The residential PSW, the parole officer, youth and family develop the youth's family reintegration and transition plans and are all in agreement with the plan.

(7) The parole officer completes the parole individual case plan and parole conditions and a checklist that identifies strategies to minimize risk factors for sexual re-offending.

(8) For those youth that have received primary sex offender specialized treatment, aftercare services are secured for the youth while on parole.

(9) A parole officer conducts at least one contact per month in the home while the youth is on double intensive, intensive, or moderate surveillance. At least one in home contact per quarter must be made while the youth is on minimum surveillance.

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 June 14, 2002.

TRD-200203707

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


Chapter 91. PROGRAM SERVICES

Subchapter A. BASIC SERVICES

37 TAC §91.21

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §91.21, concerning Moral Values, Worship, and Religious Education. The amendment to the section combines two previous subsections to clarify that youth will be given the opportunity to participate in religious programs and services while in a TYC facility. Only when a documented threat to safety of persons or the activity disrupts the order of the facility will participation be limited.

Don McCullough, 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 clear commitment by TYC for youth to participate in religious programs and services. 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, §61.046 Religious Training, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to provide for the religious and spiritual training of children in its custody according to the childrens' individual choices.

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

§91.21.Moral Values, Worship, and Religious Education.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish guidelines for providing youth with the opportunity and encouragement to develop and internalize a set of personal moral values.

(b) Texas Youth Commission (TYC) shall provide youth the opportunity to participate in religious education programs and services for youth.

(c) Participation in religious services and counseling shall be voluntary.

(d) Arbitrary and discriminatory restrictions of religious freedoms are prohibited.

(e) Halfway house and contract residential programs shall provide for reasonable access to religious programs, counseling, and other such resources in the community.

(f) Youth will be given the opportunity to participate in religious programs and services. Participation shall be limited only when documentation indicates a threat to the safety of persons involved or the activity disrupts order in the facility.

[(f) Participation in religious programs and services shall be limited only when documentation indicates a threat to the safety of persons involved or the activity disrupts facility order and/or discipline.]

[(g) Youth will be given the opportunity to participate in the practices of their declared religious faiths limited only by documentation showing threat to the safety of persons involved in such activity or that the activity itself disrupts order in the facility.]

(g) [ (h) ] Youth in TYC operated facilities may request that a specific religious practice or item be made available to him or her. A youth's request is subject to an assessment and approval process.

(h) [ (i) ] TYC shall provide access to adult clergy.

(i) [ (j) ] TYC shall encourage the participation of volunteer religious groups and individuals in its religious services and programs.

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 June 11, 2002.

TRD-200203655

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


Chapter 93. YOUTH RIGHTS AND REMEDIES

37 TAC §93.31

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §93.31, concerning Complaint Resolution System. The amendment to the section eliminates the application subsection making all complaints follow this rule. A paragraph was added indicating that the person receiving the complaint would place verbal complaints in writing. Other amendments to the section are minor grammatical corrections and clarifications.

Don McCullough, 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 better system of addressing complaints. 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 Operations of Programs and Facilities, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to operate effective programs and facilities and be responsive to the public and the clientele it serves.

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

§93.31.Complaint Resolution System.

(a) Purpose. This section should be implemented in a way that best achieves the following public purposes:

(1) to provide a simple trustworthy way for a youth, the youth's parents , or other persons to voice complaints about a youth's care and treatment;

(2) to respond to all complaints promptly and thoroughly with corrective measures or information that aids understanding; and

(3) to achieve the foregoing purposes in a manner that contributes positively to the resocialization process and results in on-going improvement in agency programs and services.

(b) Explanation of Terms Used.

(1) Complaint--any dissatisfaction expressed by any person with regard to youth care, treatment , or conditions that is within the agency's jurisdiction to correct.

(2) Tracking number--[ means ] a number that is recorded for each complaint to confirm its filing and track its progress.

[(c) Application. This section does not apply to complaints about:]

[(1) alleged abuse or neglect that are handled according to the provisions of (GAP) §93.33 of this title (relating to Alleged Mistreatment);]

[(2) disciplinary actions that are handled according to the provisions of (GAP) §95.3 of this title (relating to Rules of Conduct, Contraband, and Dress);]

[(3) phase system progress; and]

[(4) security or detention referrals that are handled according to the provisions of (GAP) §97.37 of this title (relating to Security Intake).]

(c) [ (d) ] Filing Complaints.

(1) Complaints shall be in writing and given to the person who has been designated at the youth's placement to receive them.

(2) If a complaint is made verbally and the complainant does not wish to put the complaint in writing, the person receiving the complaint will assist in reducing the complaint to writing and will ensure it is given to the appropriate person.

(3) [ (2) ] Reasonable restrictions may be imposed on the time, place , and manner of filing to preserve order and maintain attention during instructional or treatment activities.

(4) [ (3) ]Youth or their parents shall be provided assistance when necessary in writing a complaint and in ensuring [ seeing to it ] that the complaint is filed correctly.

(5) [ (4) ] A complaint has been filed correctly when the person who has been designated at the youth's placement to receive complaints has assigned it a tracking number.

(6) [ (5) ] No one shall be retaliated against in any way for filing a complaint. No reference to the filing of a complaint shall be included in the youth's records.

(7) [ (6) ] Youth with limited English proficiency will be allowed to file and make complaints in languages other than English.

(d) [ (e) ] Resolving Complaints.

(1) The staff [ person or team leader ] who is assigned to resolve a complaint shall be a person [ or team leader ] at the youth's placement who:

(A) has the authority to implement an appropriate corrective measure;

(B) has the responsibility to recommend changes in agency policies or procedures that would be needed to implement an appropriate corrective measure; or

(C) has knowledge or access to information that can aid understanding.

(2) The staff [ person or team leader ] who is assigned to resolve a complaint may employ whatever methods the person determines necessary and appropriate to reach a successful resolution of the complaint, such as:

(A) conducting personal interviews of the youth, the youth's parents, or others who might provide helpful information;

(B) researching previous resolutions of the same or similar complaints;

(C) using mediation, dispute resolution or other problem-solving techniques; or

(D) consulting with other persons who might be affected by or contribute to a successful resolution.

(3) A complaint is successfully resolved when the response results in corrective measures or in the provision of information that aids understanding.

(4) The response to a complaint shall be in writing and shall indicate the tracking number and a brief summary of any factual determinations that are made, corrective measures that are taken, or information that is given to aid understanding.

(5) Complaints filed by youth with limited English proficiency must be resolved. Each facility must designate a group of persons who are proficient in other languages to be responsible for translating and resolving complaints made in languages other than [ that ] English. If no staff members at [ of ] the facility are proficient in the language used in the complaint, [ the complaint shall be translated into English. Facility staff members may ] appropriate staff will contact the complaints coordinator in central office, who can assist in securing an English translation of the complaint. The staff member responsible for resolving the complaint shall prepare a written response to the complaint. The response shall be translated into the youth's native language, with the help of the complaints coordinator.

(e) [ (f) ] Appeal to the Executive Director.

(1) A youth or the youth's parents may appeal an unsatisfactory response or the lack of response to a complaint that has been assigned a tracking number.

(2) There is a lack of response to a complaint if no response [ to it ] is received within 15 working days of filing.

(3) Appeals shall be handled under the provisions of (GAP) §93.53 of this title (relating to Appeal to Executive Director).

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 June 11, 2002.

TRD-200203654

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


37 TAC §93.53

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §93.53, concerning Appeal to Executive Director. The amendment to the section adds a paragraph indicating that a youth may appeal directly to the executive director when a decision has been made to extend his/her length of stay in the security program if the youth has been in the program for 240 continuous hours or longer.

Don McCullough, 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 due process for youth in TYC custody. 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 Operations of Programs and Facilities, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to establish responsible programs for the welfare, custody and rehabilitation of youth.

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.

(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.

(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) a result of the second and subsequent 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;

(11) a decision to extend the youth's stay in the security program, if the youth has already been in the security program for 240 continuous hours or longer;

(12) [ (11) ] 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

(13) [ (12) ] a decision from a Title IV-E hearing.

(d) All appeals to the executive director must be filed within six (6) 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 June 11, 2002.

TRD-200203653

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


Chapter 95. YOUTH DISCIPLINE

Subchapter A. DISCIPLINARY PRACTICES

37 TAC §95.11

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §95.11, concerning Disciplinary Transfer/Assigned Minimum Length of Stay/Demotion of Phase Consequence. The amendment to the section changes the title of the rule to add that a demotion of a youth's phase may be a consequence for negative behavior. A youth's resocialization phase progression may be affected by negative behavior. The amendment to the rule adds that phase demotion is now a disciplinary option for youth who violate rules.

Don McCullough, 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 continued accountability and disciplinary options for youth in TYC programs. There will be no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic cost to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. No private real property rights are affected by adoption of this rule.

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

The amendment is proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.075 Determination of Treatment, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to provide adequate treatment and disciplinary practices for youth in its care.

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

§95.11.Disciplinary Transfer/Assigned Minimum Length of Stay /Demotion of Phase Consequence.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to provide for the movement of a Texas Youth Commission (TYC) youth to an appropriate placement [ and/or ] assignment of a minimum length of stay , and/or demotion of one or more behavior phases as disciplinary consequences for behavior that violates rules. Disciplinary transfer , [ and ] assignment of a disciplinary minimum length of stay , and demotion of one or more behavior phases are considered major consequences.

(b) Applicability.

(1) The due process necessary to effect this rule is found in (GAP) §95.55 of this title (relating to Level II Hearing Procedure).

(2) Additional procedures and restrictions are applied prior to any movement of a sentenced offender youth. See [ (GAP) §85.33 of this title (relating to Program Completion and Movement of Sentenced Offenders). Also see ] (GAP) §85.37 of this title (relating to Sentenced Offender Disposition).

(c) Explanation of Terms Used. A High risk offense - is any major rule violation which may result in a classification other than general offender or violator of CINS probation.

(d) Criteria and Disposition for Disciplinary Transfer , [ and ] Disciplinary Assigned Minimum Length of Stay , and Demotion of One or More Behavior Phases .

(1) If it is found at a level II hearing that the youth has failed on two or more occasions to comply with the conditions of release under supervision and/or a written reasonable request of staff that is either present in the Individual Case Plan (ICP) or is validly related to previous high risk behavior, a youth may be:

(A) transferred to a placement of equal or more restriction than the youth's most recent permanent placement, or

(B) assigned a disciplinary minimum length of stay but only at the present placement.

(2) If it is found at a level II hearing that the youth has committed any major rule violation [ other than that set out in paragraph (1) of this subsection ], the youth may be:

(A) transferred to a placement of equal or more restriction than the youth's most recent permanent placement; [ and/or ]

(B) assigned a disciplinary minimum length of stay ; and/or [ . ]

(C) demoted two or more resocialization phases in the behavior area.

(3) An assigned disciplinary minimum length of stay under this policy shall only be for offenses that meet criteria and shall not exceed six (6) months.

(4) If the hearing manager determines there are extenuating circumstances incidental to the violation(s) proved at a level II hearing, the youth shall not be transferred or assigned a disciplinary minimum length of stay, but the hearing manager shall notify the administrator responsible for the program to which the youth is assigned so an appropriate disciplinary action may be taken.

(e) Additional Disposition Options. Pursuant to a level II hearing herein, certain youth in TYC institutions or secure contract programs, who are assessed a disposition under this rule may also be assessed other eligible dispositions, but only if criteria have been met and if specifically requested in the level II hearing request pursuant to this policy. If extenuating circumstances are found by the hearing manager pursuant to a level II hearing herein, other eligible dispositions may be assessed if the hearing manager decides that such dispositions are appropriate despite the finding of extenuation in the present level II hearing. Disposition options are listed.

(1) Aggression Management Program. A placement in the Aggression Management Program (AMP) may be requested for a youth who is currently assigned to a TYC operated institution under requirements of (GAP) §95.21 of this title (relating to Aggression Management Program). All policy and program requirements of (GAP) §95.21 will apply to the assignment in AMP.

(2) Behavior Management Program.

(A) A placement in the Behavior Management Program (BMP) may be requested for certain youth under requirements of (GAP) §95.17 of this title (relating to Behavior Management Program). All policy and program requirements of (GAP) §95.17 will apply to the assignment in a BMP.

(B) A maximum length of stay in BMP shall run concurrently with any new assigned minimum length of stay under this policy.

(f) Restrictions.

(1) A youth on parole status shall not be moved or transferred into a placement of high restriction under this rule.

(2) When local authorities make a written request to defer an allegation to their jurisdiction for prosecution, TYC will cancel the directive, unless a due process hearing will be scheduled on other allegation(s). A due process hearing on any allegation(s) shall be scheduled within seven days (excluding weekends and holidays).

(3) A level II hearing should be held prior to a disciplinary transfer. When good cause compels a pre-hearing movement of the youth, the hearing shall be held within three consecutive days after the movement.

(4) A youth assigned a disciplinary minimum length of stay may remain in the current program or be transferred and remain in the new placement until the assigned disciplinary length of stay and other program completion criteria are completed.

(5) The assigned disciplinary minimum length of stay may be reduced based on the youth's behavior and progress toward goals.

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 June 11, 2002.

TRD-200203651

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


Chapter 97. SECURITY AND CONTROL

Subchapter A. SECURITY AND CONTROL

37 TAC §97.29

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §97.29, concerning Escape/Abscondence and Apprehension. The amendment to the section further explains the definition of escape. Escape will be defined as a youth having specific intent to escape, commits an act amounting to more than mere preparation, but fails to effect the intended escape.

Don McCullough, 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 greater protection for the public and increased accountability for youth in TYC custody. 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, §61.093 Escape and Apprehension, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to apprehend youth who have escaped from a facility or broken specific conditions of release.

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

§97.29.Escape/Abscondence and Apprehension.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to acknowledge a relationship with TYC, law enforcement, and Texas/National Crime Information Center (TCIC/NCIC) with regard to reporting and apprehending youth in TYC custody who escape or abscond from their assigned location, supervision, or who fail to report as required.

(b) Applicability. This rule applies to all youth in TYC jurisdiction whether supervised by TYC staff or contract staff.

(c) Explanation [ Definition ] of Terms Used.

(1) Failure to report -- [ occurs ] when a youth assigned to home level restriction fails on two or more occasions to report as required by the youth's most recent case plan.

(2) Abscond -- [ occurs ] when a youth assigned to home level of restriction leaves any designated location without permission of staff and his/her whereabouts are unknown by the supervising staff.

(3) Escape -- [ occurs ] when a youth assigned to a minimum, medium , or high level restriction facility:

(A) leaves the property of a TYC facility or contract program or other designated location without permission of staff; [ or ]

(B) fails to return at the designated time unless excused by the facility/program administrator ; or [ . ]

(C) with specific intent to escape, commits an act amounting to more than mere preparation, but fails to effect the intended escape.

(d) When a youth escapes or absconds, or fails to report, Texas Youth Commission (TYC) staff will make concerted efforts to apprehend the youth with assistance of law enforcement officials, staff and other affected parties.

(e) Directives to Apprehend shall be issued by an agency staff according to Texas/National Crime Information Center (TCIC/NCIC) policy and procedures and DPS/FBI guidelines.

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 June 11, 2002.

TRD-200203652

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


37 TAC §97.40, §97.43

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §97.40, concerning Security Program, and an amendment to §97.43, concerning Institution Detention Program. The amendments to §97.40, Security Program, include minor grammatical corrections as well as correction to position titles that have changed. The other amendment to the section includes an admission process and an extended stay requirement that states when a youth's behavior meets admission criteria; the incident shall be documented on an incident report form and used as evidence in a level III hearing. The section was also amended to state that an extension decision may be appealed to the executive director rather than to the deputy executive director. The amendments to §97.43, Institution Detention Program, include minor grammar corrections as well as a requirement that a detention hearing need not be held if a youth is under indictment pending a trial for referral to criminal court or sentenced offenders awaiting transfer to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Institution Division if the hearing date is set to take place within a reasonable period of time from the date of detention.

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

Mr. McCullough also has determined that for each year of the first five years the sections are in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the sections will be increased accountability and due process procedures 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 sections as proposed. No private real property rights are affected by adoption of the rules.

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 Operations of Programs and Facilities, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to determine the most effective methods of treatment and discipline for youth in its care.

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

§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 or ] others and staff cannot protect them [ 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, caseworker, or designated juvenile correctional officer (JCO) VI [ 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) The youth's behavior that meets the admission criteria shall be documented on the Incident Report form, CCF-225, to be used as evidence in the level III hearing.

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

(5) [ (4) ] The director of security or designee will review all admission decisions within one (1) 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.

(6) [ (5) ] The youth will be notified in writing of his/her right to appeal. 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.

(7) [ (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.

(8) [ (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. The youth's behavior that meets the admission/extension criteria shall be documented on the Incident Report form, CCF-225, to be used as evidence in the level III hearing.

(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 to make a decision on the facts presented.

(C) The following staff may be appointed to be the decision-maker: superintendent, assistant superintendent, ADO, PA, IPC, principal, psychologist, caseworker, or designated JCO VI [ 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) The director of security or designee will review the 24-hour extension decision within one (1) 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.

(F) The youth will be notified in writing of his/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 the 72-hour extension decision within one (1) 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 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 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 decisions 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.

(7) If due process extension hearings are not timely held the youth shall be released from the security program.

§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 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 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 72 hours):

(i) if a due process 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).

(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.

(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 based on current behavior or circumstances and 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 (7) days, excluding weekends and holidays, from the date of the alleged violation.

(A) 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) 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 the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Institution Division (TDCJ-ID) [ 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 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. ]

(A) youth under indictment pending trial pursuant to (GAP) §95.5 of this title (relating to Referral to Criminal Court);

(B) youth detained pending transportation as defined in this policy; or

(C) sentenced offenders awaiting a transfer hearing to TDCJ-ID as defined in GAP §85.37 of this title (relating to Sentenced Offender Disposition), if the hearing date is set to take place within a reasonable period of time from the date of detention.

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

(7) The youth is notified in writing of his/her right to appeal the level IV hearing.

(f) 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 June 14, 2002.

TRD-200203705

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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


Chapter 99. GENERAL PROVISIONS

Subchapter C. MISCELLANEOUS

37 TAC §99.90

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §99.90, concerning Vehicle Fleet Management. The amendment to the section indicates there is a cap on the size of the vehicle fleet. Other amendments to this section will prohibit drivers and passengers from smoking, using tobacco, consuming, or transporting alcohol in state owned vehicles.

Don McCullough, 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 that the expectation is that vehicles are a workplace and drivers and passengers are expected to refrain from tobacco and/or alcohol use while using state owned property. 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, §61.034, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the broad rulemaking authority.

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

§99.90.Vehicle Fleet Management.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this policy is to establish the authority and responsibility for management and operation of the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) vehicle fleet and to adopt the rules and procedures mandated in the State of Texas General Services Commission (GSC) Office of Vehicle Fleet Management's (OVFM) State Vehicle Fleet Management Plan in accordance with Section 2171.104, Government Code.

(b) Explanation of Terms Used.

(1) Fleet Manager - a TYC employee in the central office business services department who is responsible for day-to-day agency-wide fleet management. Responsibilities include guidance to central office and field fleet motor pool operations and maintenance, data collection and reporting, and acting as the central point of contact with the GSC OVFM.

(2) Office of Vehicle Fleet Management (OVFM) - the primary office at the GSC that developed, under direction of the Council on Competitive Government, the State Vehicle Fleet Management Plan and is responsible for the development and implementation of actions for improving administration and operation on the state's vehicle fleet. The OVFM has the authority to review agencies' vehicle utilization and receive data relative to agencies' fleet operations and maintenance. It has ultimate authority to establish and also to reduce an agency's vehicle authorization levels based on defined utilization criteria.

(3) Vehicle Control Officer (VCO) - a TYC employee responsible to manage the assigned vehicle fleet at each agency location and act as liaison and point of contact with the agency fleet manager.

(4) Vehicle Utilization Board (VUB) - a special TYC board appointed by the deputy executive director and chaired by the director of business services with members from the TYC finance and juvenile corrections departments that oversee development and implementation of TYC fleet management policy. Make recommendations to the executive committee relative to agency vehicle fleet matters such as vehicle authorization levels, purchasing and replacement.

(5) Mission Critical Vehicles - the vehicles assigned to individuals identified in key mission critical positions required by the executive director to commute in designated vehicles.

(6) Administrative Support Vehicles - the vehicles assigned to agency locations, including sedans and van[ , ] that are used to transport staff to training, meetings and other specific staff responsibilities off-site.

(7) Maintenance and Supply Vehicles - the assigned trucks and cargo vans used for the conduct of the basic logistics support (maintenance, supply, purchasing, delivery, etc.) function.

(8) Student Security and Client Support Vehicles - the vans used in conjunction with the campus security or youth transport functions.

(9) Special Requirements Vehicles - the heavy equipment or special purpose vehicles, such as dump trucks, fire trucks, and staked flatbed trucks, specifically authorized at some TYC locations because of unique circumstances or need.

(c) Applicability. This rule applies to all TYC staff, state-employed contract nurses, and volunteers under certain circumstances.

(d) Fleet Management Structure.

(1) The TYC executive committee will provide executive level oversight and support and be the final approval authority for major vehicle fleet decisions relative to policy, authorization levels, and appropriations requests based on the recommendations of the TYC VUB and agency fleet manager.

(2) The deputy executive director will appoint members to a cross-functional agency VUB.

(3) The fleet manager will make purchasing, replacement, repair, assignment and use, disposal decisions and recommendations to the VUB and executive committee as appropriate. Coordinates the rotation of authorized vehicles between agency locations based on mission and utilization requirements.

(4) The VCO will be the fleet manager in central office, business manager at the institutions, superintendent at the halfway houses, and quality assurance administrator/parole supervisor at the service areas. VCO's are responsible for maintenance and repair of vehicles, scheduling use of motor pool vehicles, collecting and reporting fleet data, securing and issuing keys and fuel cards and documenting return of same. The VCO is required to sign the Agreement for Vehicle Control Officer form, BSD-807 and submit the form to the fleet manager in central office.

(e) Vehicle Fleet Size. TYC will comply with all purchasing restriction as outlined in the State Vehicle Management Plan. TYC will not exceed the current vehicle fleet size that is mandated by OVFM, except in cases of legislatively mandated program changes, federal program initiatives, or documented need resulting from program growth or changes that would increase the authorized fleet size. The fleet manager [ Fleet Manager ] must certify in writing to OVFM any vehicles purchased due to legislatively mandated program changes, federal program initiatives, or need resulting from program growth or changes. All such waiver requests must be received in writing from the executive director and documentation must fully specify the mandate or need to exceed the vehicle cap.

(f) Explanation of Motor Pool.

(1) TYC will form statewide motor pools based on the primary function or utilization of each vehicle. Each agency vehicle will be assigned within an agency motor pool at a specific location and made available for checkout for official duty purposes where applicable. Each agency location will be authorized a specific number of vehicles within each designated utilization pool based on relative size or unique mission requirements. Vehicles will be rotated among locations and pools as necessary to meet utilization and efficiency criteria. Sub-pools may be formed at a location for more efficient management or utilization purposes. The following statewide pools will be formed.

(A) Mission Critical Vehicles. The executive director will assign vehicles to individual agency staff only after a written determination is made that it is critical to mission requirements. No personal use of these vehicles is authorized other than commuting or de minims use (such as a stop for personal errand on the way between a business delivery and the employee's home) while commuting. TYC will report to the OVFM the information required by the State Vehicle Fleet Management Plan on each vehicle by February 28, 2001 and thereafter as individual assignments occur.

(B) Administrative Support Vehicles. Pool vehicles will be made available for employee check out as needed with local responsibility for prioritizing their use in the event of conflicting requirements. Administrative vehicle utilization can be augmented with leased or rental vehicles within mission and budget requirements.

(C) Maintenance and Supply Vehicles. All agency locations are encouraged to minimize the requirements for registered motor vehicles and place more reliance on low speed utility conveyances such as golf carts, "Gators" or "Mules" for these functions.

(D) Student Security and Client Support Vehicles. The vans used in conjunction with the campus security or youth transport functions. Statewide youth transportation vehicles will be part of this pool. Vehicles will be outfitted with security enclosures where needed.

(E) Special Requirements Vehicles. The heavy equipment or special purpose vehicles, such as dump trucks, fire trucks, and staked flatbed trucks, specifically authorized at some TYC locations because of unique circumstances or need.

(2) Individual Vehicle Assignments. The executive director may assign state owned vehicles to an individual or executive employee on a regular basis only with written documentation that the assignment is critical to the mission of the agency. The following information must be reported to the OVFM as individual assignments occur. For specific policy and procedures regarding state vehicle assignment(s) refer to (PRS) §43.15 of this title (relating to State Vehicle Assignments).

(A) Vehicle identification number, license plate number, year, make, and model;

(B) name and position of the individual to whom it is assigned unless a determination is made by the executive committee that there is a law enforcement or security determination and the vehicle has been issued alias license plates; and

(C) reason the assignment is critical to the mission of the agency.

(3) TYC will establish and maintain the general minimum mileage criteria for its pooled vehicles based on the guidelines provided by OVFM. The agency fleet manager will track utilization and initiate actions to rotate vehicles between locations or pools to meet minimum utilization criteria. The agency fleet manager will identify unique requirements and justification for specific other minimum use criteria for OVFM consideration and waiver. The fleet manager will provide responses and justification to OVFM within 30 days of receipt of quarterly vehicle utilization reports.

(4) TYC will use one or more of the state contracted vendor cards for retail fuel dispensing services. Fuel cards will be issued for specific vehicles, not specific drivers. Unless specifically prohibited by manufacturer warranty or recommendations, all TYC vehicles operating on gasoline shall use regular unleaded gasoline. TYC employees will use self-service islands when refueling at retail fueling stations.

(5) TYC will establish vehicle replacement goals based on the purpose, age and mileage criteria published in the OVFM State Vehicle Management Plan.

(6) TYC will out-source maintenance and repair of fleet assets unless it is demonstrated to be more economical to perform those functions in-house. TYC will develop interagency agreements to obtain maintenance, repairs and fuel where feasible.

(7) TYC may dispose of vehicles identified as excess by the OVFM through the GSC Surplus Property Division process or through other approved surplus property disposal processes. TYC must certify the successful disposal of vehicles identified excess vehicles by OVFM within six months from notification. Vehicles identified for disposal by GSC are not eligible for replacement.

(8) TYC will capture and submit, through the fleet manager, fleet data to OVFM based on the criteria and timetable established in the State Vehicle Management Plan. TYC will maintain detailed supporting documentation for all reporting requirements. TYC will use the standardized vehicle reporting log developed by OVFM unless a different form is specifically approved by OVFM.

(g) Driving Requirements.

(1) Authorized Drivers. Persons authorized to drive a state owned vehicle, privately owned vehicle, or a leased vehicle on TYC business shall do so in a responsible manner obeying all state laws and in compliance with the following rules. This policy applies to vehicles that [ which ] are [ to be ] driven on public roads, highways and on the grounds of TYC facilities. For specific procedures regarding authorized drivers refer to (PRS) §43.13 to this title (relating to Driving Requirements).

(2) General Driver Rules.

(A) State vehicles shall be used only for official business. Official business may include travel directly to an employee's home the night before official travel begins or travel directly from an employee's home to his/her work site the morning after official travel ends when such is authorized by the employee's supervisor and will expedite the employee's travel or otherwise make the most efficient use of the employee's time. See (PRS) §43.13 to this title (relating to Driving Requirements).

(B) State owned vehicles will be available to TYC staff, volunteers, and contract nurses to transport youth at TYC staffed facilities in emergencies.

(C) Drivers and passengers are not permitted to smoke or use tobacco while operating or traveling in a state owned vehicle.

(D) Drivers and passengers are not permitted to consume or transport alcohol while operating or traveling in a state owned vehicle.

(3) Vehicle Accident. If the driver is involved in an accident, he/she should notify his/her supervisor and the VCO immediately. If the accident occurs on a public thoroughfare, the proper authorities must be notified. See (PRS) §43.13 to this title (relating to Driving Requirements).

(4) Use of Fuel Cards. TYC gasoline fuel cards assigned by TYC are to be used only for purchase of gasoline, standard preventive maintenance items (oil and filter changes, etc.) and car washes. TYC issued fuel cards may be used only in state owned vehicles and vehicle(s) leased for state proposes. See (PRS) §43.13 to this title (relating to Driving Requirements).

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 June 14, 2002.

TRD-200203704

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: July 28, 2002

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