TITLE 37.PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS

Part 6. TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Chapter 163. COMMUNITY JUSTICE ASSISTANCE DIVISION STANDARDS

37 TAC §§163.3, 163.5, 163.21, 163.31, 163.33 - 163.35, 163.37, 163.39 - 163.43, 163.46, 163.47,

The Texas Board of Criminal Justice, on behalf of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Community Justice Assistance Division (CJAD), proposes amendments to §§163.3, 163.5, 163.21, 163.31, 163.33 - 163.35, 163.37, 163.39 - 163.43, 163.46, and 163.47, standards for Community Supervision and Corrections Departments (CSCDs). Sections 163.3, 163.5, 163.21, 163.35, and 163.46, contain non-substantive changes for clarification purposes. The amendments to §§163.31, 163.33, 163.34, 163.37, 163.39 - 163.43, and 163.47, are more substantive and are summarized by section as follows. Section 163.31 provides for interagency relationships. Section 163.33 clarifies training hour documentation procedures and sets forth circumstances in which CSOs must re-certify. Section 163.34 clarifies definitions of lethal and non-lethal weapons; sets policies on weapon issues and TDCJ Emergency Action Center notification. Section 163.37 requires sex offender registration documentation be maintained in case file. Section 163.39 expands sentencing options for judges; requires supporting records be submitted by judicial districts interested in establishing a CCF; clarifies Community Corrections Facility (CCF); adds public meeting restrictions to contracted private vendors desiring TDCJ-CJAD funds to lease, purchase or construct buildings for correctional or rehabilitation facilities; requires CCF capacity revisions be approved through the community justice plan amendment process; requires Contract Residential Facilities to comply with applicable competitive bidding laws, contract terms and conditions and requires monitoring and auditing of the facility operations; revises timeframe on employee TB screening; requires criminal history and arrest records be obtained prior to employment on each CCF employee, volunteer or intern to be maintained in their personnel file; requires compliance with any state, federal, local law or building code related to safety, sanitation, and health and requires maintenance of such records and prompt written notification of any non-compliance; requires compliance with applicable laws and regulations regarding water supply; requires compliance with health regulations and codes regarding sanitation; requires compliance regarding waste; requires compliance with building codes regarding buildings; requires compliance standards regarding fire evacuation plans; requires written plans for emergency evacuation; restricts commingling of residents and jail inmates; requires a housekeeping and maintenance plan be in effect; requires Guidelines be dated and revises the review period on Operation Manuals; requires all CCFs have written policies, procedures, and practices that restrict the use of physical force and requires written UOF reports be submitted promptly; added the Grievance Procedure to be made available to all CCF offenders; extends the requirements involving incident notification; deletes the eligibility criteria for placement into a CCC; clarifies capacity constraints and affect on pending placement; expanded Health Care Section to cover emergency health care, health screening and medical examinations; serious and infectious diseases, dental care, medications, female offenders, mental health, suicide prevention; personnel, informed consent; research participation, notification and health records; requires CCF director to ensure compliance with Texas Government Code and applicable laws regarding notification to crime victims of facility residents; and adds the term non-emergency to discharge criteria. §163.40 clarifies who signs a diagnostic summary; added reference to deadline in Discharge Summary; sets forth level of treatment requirements; clarifies the admission intake process; deleted modality and of treatment in Modified Therapeutic Community; clarifies actions of substance abuse counselors at intake; deleted Section regarding Therapeutic Communities; adds requirements regarding staffing for modified therapeutic community; revises offender treatment plan requirements; added reference to outpatient treatment levels and clarifies notification to TCOMI. Section 163.41 extends confidentiality requirements regarding HIV and medical and psychological information. Section 163.42 clarifies and extends definition of substantial noncompliance. Section 163.43 clarifies financial procedures regarding requested information from CSCDs and other potentially eligible TDCJ-CJAD funding recipients; clarifies restrictions on CSCD generated revenue and available records; clarifies the intent of TDCJ-CJAD funding; revises intended usage of CSCD generated revenue; clarifies agency and duty titles and types of record files maintained; adds scheduling timeframe for budget approvals and requires use of Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding regarding inventory. Section 163.47 adds hearing expectations regarding contested matters; requires prepaid postage on contested matters; provides option for further hearing before the Judicial Advisory Council and clarifies procedure and timeframe for submission of request for JAC hearing and extends testimony in contested matters to include affidavit.

Brad Livingston, Chief Financial Officer for TDCJ has determined that there may be minimal fiscal implication resulting from amendments on CSCDs for the first five year period of operations. He has further determined that there may be minimal fiscal effect on local government for the next five year period, and that the implementation of the amendments will have no effect on small businesses, as they will not have to comply with the rules.

The Department of Criminal Justice has determined that the public benefit and cost the proposals represent are an effort to improve Community Supervision and Corrections Departments resulting in increased public safety.

Comments should be directed to Mr. Carl Reynolds, TDCJ-OGC 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.

The amendments are proposed under Texas Government Code §492.013, which grants general rulemaking authority to the Board of Criminal Justice, and §509.003, which authorizes the Board to adopt reasonable rules establishing minimum standards for the operations and programs of community supervision and corrections departments.

Cross-Reference to statute: Government Code §492.013 and §509.003.

§163.3.Objectives.

The objectives of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Community Justice Assistance Division (TDCJ-CJAD) standards are:

(1) - (2) (No change.)

(3) to assist CSCDs [ community supervision and corrections departments (CSCDs) ] in providing protection to the community and rehabilitation services for the offender;

(4) - (10) (No change.)

§163.5.Waiver to Standards.

The TDCJ-CJAD director may grant a waiver to a CSCD, or other state-aid recipient, from a standard or standards upon receipt, examination and approval of a request for waiver by TDCJ-CJAD. The request for waiver must include a plan to comply with said standard or standards by a certain date, and an explanation as to why the CSCD [ agency ] is not currently in compliance with said standard or standards. When out of compliance with any standard, the request for waiver of standards must immediately be submitted by the CSCD [ agency ] director to the TDCJ-CJAD director. If the waiver is approved by the TDCJ-CJAD director, the waiver becomes part of the audit record for compliance with that standard.

§163.21.Administration

(a) CSCD Director. The district judge or judges shall appoint a CSCD director, who shall meet, at a minimum, the same eligibility criteria as a community supervision officer (CSO) as cited in the Texas Government Code §76.005, and §163.33 of this title (relating to CSOs). [ community supervision officers). ] It is the responsibility of the CSCD director to apply state, local, and other available resources to employ a sufficient number of officers and other employees to perform the professional and clerical work of the department as required by law, TDCJ-CJAD standards, and local community corrections needs as identified in the local community justice plan. The TDCJ-CJAD director is to be notified by the administrative judge of the appointment of a CSCD director.

(b) - (h) (No change.)

(i) Compliance with statutes and TDCJ-CJAD policy statements. CSCD directors shall ensure that all CSCD operations comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and TDCJ-CJAD policy statements and official manuals pertaining to CSCDs.

(j) (No change.)

§163.31.Sanctions, Programs, and Services.

(a) Core services. All CSCDs shall provide the following core services:

(1) (No change.)

(2) Basic supervision:

(A) - (H) (No change.)

(I) provide access to assessment and access to treatment services for sex offenders and violent offenders and maintain [ . Also, ] appropriate levels of supervision [ should be maintained ] for both of these types of offenders.

(3) (No change.)

(b) (No change.)

(c) Local/regional planning. CSCD directors participating in regional programs and services shall work with the directors of other CSCDs impacted by those regional efforts in the planning, development, and implementation of regional programs/services to address offender needs. Regional programs/services shall be designed to address regional needs as identified in each jurisdiction's community justice plan [ plans ] and as the more efficient economical response to specific offender issues for each of the participating jurisdictions.

(d) Community service restitution (CSR). CSCD directors shall maintain written agreements with governmental and/or nonprofit agencies and organizations to provide offenders opportunities to comply with court-ordered community service restitution according to the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, art. [ Article ] 42.12, §16, CSR programs and referrals.

(e) (No change.)

(f) Methods for measuring the success of community supervision and corrections program [ programs ]. For purposes of Texas Government Code §509.007(b), the method for measuring program completion is defined as the completion of all required components of the program, and/or an offender's release from the program that is not related to any non-compliant behavior; an inappropriate placement; or death. The method for measuring recidivism is defined as a rearrest for a new separate offense that is punishable by incarceration (i.e., Class B Misdemeanors and up). This definition does not include arrests for Motions To Revoke community supervision and bond forfeitures.

(g) Conflicts of interest. The CSCD director shall ensure that there is a written policy concerning conflicts of interest. The policy shall address the prohibition of possible conflicts of interest affecting [ between ] the CSCD, its supervision officers or employees [ and any other groups or individuals ].

(h) Partnerships with Law Enforcement Agencies, etc. At the direction of the district judge or judges, CSCDs shall cooperate and provide assistance to municipal, county and state law enforcement agencies or peace officers related to offender supervision, absconder apprehension, victim services, and other community-based criminal justice activities.

§163.33.Community Supervision Officers

(a) Eligibility. In accordance with Texas Government Code §76.005, to [ To ] be eligible for employment as a CSO [ community supervision officer ] who supervises offenders, a person:

(1) - (2) (No change.)

(3) cannot be employed as a peace officer or work as a reserve or volunteer peace officer ; and

(4) (No change.)

(b) Training. CSCD directors, assistant directors, CCF [ residential ] directors, assistant CCF [ residential ] directors, CSO supervisory staff and CSOs [ community supervision officers ] shall obtain not less than 80 documented hours of professional skill-based training each biennium. Forty hours are to be approved by the CSCD director and 40 hours to be approved by the TDCJ-CJAD director, or her/his designee. Up to 40 hours, in excess of the 80 hours, may be carried over from one biennium to the next. A certified CSO who fails to obtain the required 80 hours of training within a biennium will be ineligible to serve as a CSO. A CSO, exempt from certification, who fails to obtain the required 80 hours of training within a biennium, will be ineligible to serve as a CSO until the required hours are obtained. The CSCD director or his/her designee shall ensure that training records are maintained and available for TDCJ-CJAD auditors. Those records shall reflect the following: [ number of training hours accrued, and the type of training attended, for all employees required to have any TDCJ-CJAD training hours. A community supervision officer failing to obtain the required 80 hours of training within a biennium will be ineligible to serve as a community supervision officer. ]

(1) the number of training hours accrued;

(2) the type of training attended with supporting documentation;

(3) specification of the number of accrued hours that are approved by the CSCD director;

(4) the number of accrued hours that are approved by the TDCJ-CJAD director; and

(5) the number of training hours carried over from one biennium to another.

(c) Certification. Any CSO [ community supervision officer ] who is first employed by a CSCD director or judicial district in this state after September 1, 1987, is required to complete the certification course work and obtain a passing grade on the certification examination within one year of the beginning date of employment as a CSO [ community supervision officer ]. An officer failing to achieve certification within one year of their employment date may not continue to be employed as a CSO [ community supervision officer ] beyond the specific date by which they are to have achieved certification, unless TDCJ-CJAD has granted an extension for completion of course work [ coursework ] and examination as allowed by law. A CSO [ community supervision officer ] who was employed by any CSCD in this state on or at any time before September 1, 1987, is exempt from the requirements of the certification program.

(d) Certification examination. A new CSO [ community supervision officer ], employed on or after September 2, 1987, who completes the certification course work but fails the examination, will be allowed to take the examination one more time. An officer failing the examination a second time, will be required to complete the certification course work again before being allowed to take the examination a third and final time. CSOs will be eligible to pursue the certification requirements two years after the last testing date, and are ineligible to supervise direct cases until certification is achieved.

(e) Exempt officers certification. Certification course work and the certification examination will be available to CSOs [ community supervision officers ] appointed prior to September 2, 1987. An exempt officer who wishes to be certified will be given one opportunity to pass the certification examination in order to be certified. If the CSO [ officer ] fails the examination, the officer must complete the certification course work before attempting to pass the examination again.

(f) Residential officer certification. A residential CSO [ community supervision officer ], employed or appointed as such on or after September 2, 1989, shall satisfactorily complete the course work and examination for residential certification offered by TDCJ-CJAD not later than the first anniversary of the date on which the officer begins employment with the department's residential facility. Provisions of subsections (c)-(h) of this section shall also apply to residential CSO [ community supervision officer ].

(g) Recertification. Once an officer is certified, if the CSO [ officer ] fails to maintain certification, recertification will be immediately required by successful completion of the certification examination. An officer who fails the examination[ , ] must complete the certification course work [ coursework ] for recertification. If a CSO who is subject to the certification provisions of CJAD Standard subsection (c) of this section, and who has been employed as a CSO for one year or longer, leaves the employment of a Texas CSCD for more than one year the CSO is required to become recertified. Such recertification must be accomplished within one year of re-appointment by taking and successfully passing the CSO Certification exam. An officer who fails the exam must complete the CSO certification course and pass the exam to be recertified. A CSO subject to the certification provisions of CJAD Standard subsection (c) of this section, and who has been employed as a CSO for less than one year and leaves the employment of a Texas CSCD for more than one year, is required to become recertified by completing the CSO certification course and successfully passing the exam.

(h) Certification status. An officer who fails to maintain his/her CSO certification or residential certification by not obtaining 80 hours of training in accordance with subsection (b) of this section, is immediately ineligible to supervise direct cases until recertification is achieved.

(i) Dual certifications. Residential CSOs [ community supervision officers ] are required to be certified as a CSO [ community supervision officer ] and to further obtain certification in residential service. They must complete both certification courses as noted by the time frames specified in subsections (c) and (f) of this section. However, they only need to complete 80 hours of skill-based training related to community supervision and residential programs per biennium as specified in subsection (b) of this section to maintain both certifications.

(j) Residential personnel training. All CSCD direct care staff of a residential facility shall be provided at least 40 hours of documented professional skill-based training per biennium. At least 20 training hours per biennium shall be applicable to the needs of the population served by the facility. All of the hours shall be approved by the CSCD director. At least 20 of the hours per biennium must be approved by the TDCJ-CJAD director or his/her designee. The CSCD director shall have written policy regarding training records for each employee that are maintained to reflect the following: the number of training hours accrued, the type of training attended with supporting documentation, specification of the number of accrued hours that are approved by the CSCD director, the number of accrued hours that are approved by the TDCJ-CJAD director, and the number of training hours carried over from one biennium to another. A maximum of 20 hours earned per biennium, which are in excess of the 40 required hours that biennium , may be carried over to the next biennium. All direct care staff of a residential facility shall receive training in the reintegration model training programs offered by the TDCJ-CJAD.

(1) - (2) (No change.)

(k) (No change.)

§163.34.Carrying of Weapons.

(a) In accordance with Texas Government Code §76.0051, a CSO [ A Community Supervision and Corrections Department (CSCD) officer ] is authorized to carry a handgun or other firearm [ weapon ] while engaged in the actual discharge of the officer's duties only if:

(1) (No change.)

(2) The CSCD director [ Director of the CSCD ] and the judges participating in the management of the CSCD grant the authorization.

(b) This section does not authorize a CSO [ CSCD officer ] to carry a firearm [ weapon ] while off-duty. [ A CSCD officer is engaged in the actual discharge of the officer's duties when he is acting within the course and scope of his employment and he is actually authorized to engage in the work that is being performed. A CSCD officer that is on "on-call" status is not considered as being engaged in the actual discharge of the officer's duties. The CSCD, judicial district, Agency, and State assume no liability or responsibility for such conduct that exceeds the scope of this section. ]

(c) The carrying of a handgun or other firearm [ weapons ] by CSOs [ CSCD officers ] shall be done strictly in accordance with Texas Government Code §76.5001 and the authorization, policy and procedures promulgated by the Director and judge(s) participating in the management of the CSCD as set forth in subsection (e) of this section. [ for self-defense as defined in the Texas Penal Code and in no way grants any additional law enforcement powers not already authorized by law. ]

(d) Prior to undergoing training to carry a firearm [ weapon ], a CSO [ CSCD officer ] must meet the following qualifications.

(1) The CSO [ A CSCD officer ] must be examined by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist and declared in writing by the psychologist or psychiatrist to be in satisfactory psychological and emotional health for the carrying of a weapon in the performance of their duties [ to be the type of CSCD officer ] for which a certificate of firearms proficiency is sought [ appropriate ].

(2) The CSO must execute an instrument wherein the CSO acknowledges: [ It is a violation of law for an individual to possess any firearm or ammunition if the individual has been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony crime of domestic violence. If a CSCD officer has been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, he shall not been allowed to carry a weapon while engaged in the actual discharge of his duties and he shall not be allowed to participate in firearm training. It is the employee's responsibility to inform his supervisor immediately of any conviction. ]

(A) it is unlawful for any person who has been convicted in any court of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year or any crime, misdemeanor or felony, of domestic violence to possess any firearm or ammunition; and

(B) it is the officer's responsibility to immediately inform his supervisor and the CSCD director of any arrest, charges or conviction related to such crimes.

(e) Each CSCD that elects to authorize certain, or all, of its CSOs to carry firearms in accordance with the foregoing requirements must adopt written policies and procedures defining which of its officers have authority to carry firearms and the limitations that apply to their carrying and use of firearms. Such written policies and procedures shall be submitted by the CSCD to CJAD and specify: [ Policy and Procedures. ]

[(1) Each CSCD shall adopt written policies and procedures that clearly define what authority, if any, the CSCD's officers have to carry firearms and submit those policies to CJAD for documentation purposes and that specify:]

(1) [ (A) ] the firearm training and qualification requirements;

(2) [ (B) ] the handling, use, and storage of firearms;

(3) [ (C) ] the types of firearms authorized; and,

(4) [ (D) ] the process for reporting and investigation of incidents related to the possession or use of firearms by CSOs .

(f) Each CSCD that elects to authorize CSOs to carry or utilize less than lethal weapons (aerosol sprays, chemical agents, restraining devices, stun guns, etc) must adopt written policies and procedures defining which of its officers have authority to carry same and the limitations that apply to their carrying and use. Such written policies and procedures shall be submitted for review and approval by the TDCJ-CJAD director:

(1) the training, qualification and certification requirements;

(2) the handling, use, and storage of the particular weapons and devices involved;

(3) the types and relevant specifications that apply to the less than lethal weapons that are authorized; and

(4) the process for reporting and investigation of incidents related to the possession or use of less than lethal weapons (aerosol sprays, restraining devises. stun guns, etc).

(g) [ (2) ] CSCDs that elect [ choose ] not to authorize CSOs [ allow CSCD officers ] to carry firearms or use less than lethal weapons in the performance of their duties shall adopt a written policy statement disallowing such practices, as applicable [ practice ]. Each new officer hired shall be notified of these policies prior [ this policy prior ] to an offer of employment by the CSCD .

(h) [ (f) ] Requirements of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (TCLEOSE) [ TCLEOSE Requirements ]

(1) CSOs [ CSCD officers ] authorized by the CSCD to make application to TCLEOSE for certification in firearms proficiency in accordance with the above provisions must utilize TCLEOSE approved forms and provide copies to both TDCJ-CJAD and the CSCD .

(2) CSCDs shall conduct a comprehensive background check on all CSOs [ CSCD officers ] seeking firearms certification.

(3) CSCDs shall maintain records of background information obtained on all CSOs [ CSCD officers ] seeking firearms certification.

(4) CSCDs shall maintain records of annually required requalification on all CSOs [ CSCD officers ] obtaining firearms certification.

(5) CSCDs shall notify TCLEOSE if a CSO's [ CSCD officer's ] authority to carry a firearm is rescinded.

(6) CSCDs authorizing CSOs [ CSCD officers ] to carry firearms shall notify TCLEOSE of the name, address, [ and ] telephone and fax numbers [ number ] of the CSCD Director.

(7) Each CSCD shall allow TCLEOSE and other law enforcement agencies access to records pertaining to firearms for auditing and investigation purposes.

(i) [ (g) ] CSOs Training and Qualification requirements.

(1) No CSO [ CSCD officer ] shall be granted permission to carry a firearm in the performance of their [ his ] duties unless that officer has completed a firearms training program approved by TCLEOSE and has been issued a certificate of firearms proficiency by TCLEOSE as provided in subsection (a) of this section .

(2) Firearms training provided to CSOs [ Training ] shall be designed to prepare such CSOs [ CSCD officers ] to carry such weapons in the context of conducting field visits , participating in community based criminal justice initiatives with law enforcement agencies, and in dealing with the safety and self-defense considerations related to such activities. [ and to deal with safety issues that may arise in that context for reasons of self-defense. ]

(3) CSO [ A ] qualification of weapons usage, a periodic proficiency test, and documentation of training shall be done on a yearly basis in addition to the required TCLEOSE certificate of firearms proficiency.

(4) Specific firearms and other weapons training course guidelines and recommendations shall be published in the TDCJ-CJAD Weapons Procedures Guidebook as amended from time to time .

(j) [ (h) ] Handling, Use, and Storage of Firearms.

(1) CSOs [ CSCD officers ] authorized to carry weapons shall provide their own weapons.

(2) CSCDs shall appoint an individual within their department to be responsible for yearly [ monthly ] inspection and maintenance programs for firearms [ weapons ] used by CSOs [ CSCD officers ].

[(3) Unless the CSCD officer is carrying a weapon as a private citizen under the Concealed Handgun law or other applicable law, and while off-duty, any firearm shall be stored at the CSCD officer's home when not being carried in the actual discharge of the officer's duties.]

(k) [ (i) ] Types of Firearms Authorized.

(1) CSOs [ CSCD officers ] are authorized to carry the following weapons:

(A) Double Action Revolvers; or

(B) Semi-automatic Pistols.

(2) Barrel length of weapon must be between 2" to 5" [ 2 inches to 5 inches ].

(3) Approved cartridges shall be:

(A) 9mm Luger (9x19);

(B) .38 Special;

(C) .357 Magnum;

(D) 357 Sig;

(E) .40 Smith and Wesson;

(F) 10mm Auto;

(G) .45 Auto;

(H) .380 Auto

(4) Ammunition. All carried ammunition will be factory original loads of bullet weight between 85 [ 115 ] and 230 grains, per Sporting Arms Ammunition Manufacturer Institute (SAAMI) [ (SAMMI) ] Guidelines.

(l) [ (j) ] Reports to TDCJ-CJAD. [ Reporting and Investigation of Uses of Force and Notification of Incidents. ]

(1) Each CSCD shall have a written Use of Force policy and a written procedure for reporting and investigating each incident where a firearm or less than lethal weapon is discharged , utilized or drawn on an individual. The term "to draw" means to unholster a firearm [ weapon ] in preparation for use and/or as self-defense against a perceived threat.

(2) Such procedure shall include:

(A) notification of incidents;

(B) procedures for interaction with outside entities (i.e., local law enforcement, media);

(C) internal investigation procedures; and

(D) employee support components.

(3) Notification of Incidents to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice-Emergency Action Center (TDCJ-EAC). Serious incidents, such as a CSO's [ the ] drawing of a firearm [ weapon ] on an individual or the unauthorized use of a less than lethal weapon by an officer, shall be promptly reported to TDCJ-EAC (936) 437-1448 and in all events [ (409-294-2448) ] within 24 hours of the incident . Incidents involving a CSOs [ and the ] shooting of an individual shall be reported to TDCJ-EAC immediately, if possible, and in all circumstances within three hours of occurrence. A preliminary written report of each of the above-described incidents shall be sent to CJAD within ten days of the occurrence.

§163.35.Supervision

(a) Definitions. The following words and terms, when used in this section, shall be defined as follows and apply to both felonies and misdemeanors, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) Case--An offender assigned to a CSO [ community supervision officer ] for supervision.

(2) Direct supervision--Offenders who are legally on community supervision and who work or [ and/or ] reside in the jurisdiction in which they are being supervised and receive a minimum of one face-to-face contact with a CSO [ community supervision officer ] every three months. Direct supervision begins at the time of initial face-to-face contact with an eligible CSO. Local CSCDs may maintain direct supervision of offenders living and/or working in adjoining jurisdictions if the CSCD has documented approval from the adjoining jurisdictions.

(3) Face-to-face contact--A CSO [ community supervision officer ] communicates in person with the offender.

(4) Field visit--A CSO [ community supervision officer ] communicates in person with the offender at the offender's place of residence or at another location outside the CSCD office.

(5) Indirect supervision--Maintenance of a file and/or record of an offender under supervision who meets one of the following criteria:

(A) - (B) (No change.)

(C) an offender who has absconded or who has not contacted his CSO [ community supervision officer ] in person within three months;

(D) - (E) (No change.)

(b) (No change.)

(c) Supervision process. CSOs [ Community supervision officers ] shall provide direct supervision for cases to include, but not be limited to, the following tasks.

(1) Orientation/intake. An orientation/intake session with the offender shall be conducted after the court has placed the defendant under supervision. This session shall include a thorough discussion of the conditions of community supervision and terms of release. The CSO [ community supervision officer ] shall determine that the offender has received a copy of the conditions of community supervision or terms of release ordered by the court as provided by law.

(2) Assessments. An assessment process that gathers relevant and valid information shall be completed on every offender. This process shall specifically address the offender's risk factors, need areas, obstacles to meeting those needs, offender strengths, and offender resources. The CSO [ community supervision officer ] shall request specialized assessments for offenders when it is determined that alcohol or drug abuse contributed to the offense and pursue specialized evaluations when they would significantly assist in the development of appropriate supervision plans for special needs offenders.

(3) Case classification. Within two months of the date of community supervision placement, acceptance of a transfer case, or discharge from any residential facility, jail, or institution, the CSO [ community supervision officer ] shall complete an approved TDCJ-CJAD case classification instrument to assist in the evaluation of the degree of supervision needed by each individual based on the offender's risk and/or needs. Within ten working days of the date of an offender's admission to a CCF [ or a CCC ], the CSO assigned to supervise the offender in the facility shall complete the TDCJ-CJAD case classification/assessment instrument.

(4) Strategies for case supervision (SCS) assessments. Within two months of the date of community supervision placement, acceptance of a transfer case, or discharge from any residential facility, jail, or institution, the CSO [ community supervision officer ] shall conduct a SCS assessment on each felony offender classified as maximum on case classification, unless a SCS was previously completed. While the SCS assessment may be a useful case management tool, it is not required for offenders during participation in residential programs.

(5) Case supervision or treatment plan. Within two months of the date of the most recent community supervision placement, acceptance of a transfer case, or discharge from any residential facility, the CSO [ community supervision officer ] shall develop a written individualized case supervision or treatment plan based on the offender's risk and need factors to address specific problem areas and assist the offender to achieve responsible behavior. The supervision or treatment plan shall be completed within ten working days from the date of an offender's admission to a CCF [ or a CCC ].

(6) Reassessments. CSOs [ Community supervision officers ] shall reevaluate risk and need factors and supervision plans at least every 12 months for all direct cases. An approved TDCJ-CJAD reassessment shall be completed any time a significant change occurs in the status of the offender. Any necessary modification of the supervision plan shall be indicated in writing in the case file. Upon discharge from a residential facility, the CSO assigned to supervise the offender in the facility shall complete a discharge plan.

(7) Supervision contacts. CSOs [ Community supervision officers ] shall make face-to-face, field visit, telephone, and collateral contacts with the offender, family, community resources, or other persons pursuant to and consistent with a supervision plan and the level of supervision on which the offender is being supervised. Each CSCD director shall establish supervision contact and casework standards at a level appropriate for that jurisdiction, but in all cases, offenders at increased levels of supervision because of assessments of greater risk or special needs [ higher levels of supervision ] shall receive a higher level of contacts than offenders at lower levels of supervision. The nature and extent for supervision [ Supervision ] contacts with offenders shall be specified in the CSCD's written policies and procedures.

(8) Documentation in supervision case files. CSOs [ Community supervision officers ] shall use a problem oriented record keeping system to document all significant actions, decisions, services rendered, and periodic evaluations in the offender's case file, including, but not limited to, the offender's status regarding the level of supervision, compliance with the conditions of community supervision, progress with the supervision plan, and responses to intervention.

(9) Violations. CSCD directors shall work in conjunction with the local judiciary to specify written policies and procedures under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, art 42.12, §10 wherein CSOs [ Community supervision officers ] may make recommendations to the courts regarding violations of conditions of community supervision, as well as when violations may be handled administratively. The availability of the continuum of sanctions or alternative to incarceration shall be considered by the CSO [ community supervision officer ] and recommended to the court in eligible cases as determined appropriate by the jurisdiction.

(10) Courtesy supervision. Except in cases of non-CSCD residential facility placements, courtesy supervision shall be requested if an offender will be in another jurisdiction for more than 30 days, except when good cause can be shown. Only the court retaining jurisdiction over a defendant has the authority to modify or alter a condition of community supervision. CSCD directors shall ensure that CSOs [ community supervision officers ] providing direct supervision to offenders transferred from other Texas jurisdictions shall fully enforce the order of the court that placed the individual on community supervision. It is the responsibility of the offender to comply with the conditions of community supervision as imposed by the court. CSCD directors shall ensure that CSOs [ community supervision officers ] provide the same level of supervision to courtesy cases as they do for the offenders in their jurisdiction. When transferring a case for courtesy supervision, the documents necessary for transfer shall include, at a minimum, the transfer form, the court order placing the person on community supervision citing all conditions of community supervision, the offense report, criminal history, tracking number (TRN) [ TRN ] and state identification (SID) [ SID ] number, the pre/post-sentence investigation report where legally mandated, and any assessments that have been completed. CSCD directors who decline to provide courtesy supervision to offenders from other jurisdictions shall immediately notify the original jurisdiction of the reasons for declining courtesy supervision.

(11) Transporting offenders. CSOs [ Community supervision officers ] shall not transport offenders held in a county jail pursuant to an arrest warrant. All other transportation of offenders shall be in accordance with the CSCD's policies and/or pursuant to a court order.

§163.37.Reports and Records.

(a) Case records. CSCD directors shall develop and maintain a case record management system on offenders receiving any type of supervision by the CSCD. [ Each case record shall contain a chronological recording of all significant actions, decisions, services rendered, assessments, pre/post-sentence investigation reports (PSIR), and periodic evaluations. ] Confidential items relating to medical and psychological information from any of these documents shall be handled in accordance with § 163.41 of this title (relating to HIV-AIDS, Medical and Psychological Information). All case records shall contain a written criminal history record or summary issued by a law enforcement agency. Confidentiality of case records shall be maintained in accordance with federal and state laws. Information may only be released under the circumstances as authorized by law or as directed by the court. Documentation of all sex offender registration shall be maintained as required by the Records Retention Act, Chapter 441, Texas Government Code. Each case record shall contain:

(1) court order placing the person on community supervision citing all conditions of community supervision;

(2) a chronological listing of all significant actions, decisions, services rendered, assessments;

(3) the pre/post-sentence investigation report (PSIR);

(4) periodic evaluations; and

(5) other additional documents or information related to the offender as deemed appropriate by the CSO or CSCD Director.

(b) PSIR confidentiality. Each PSIR [ All PSIRs ] prepared or approved by a CSO [ community supervision officer ], and all information obtained in connection with PSIRs, is [ the pre/post-sentence investigations, are ] confidential and may be released only to those persons and under those circumstances as authorized by Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, art 42.12, §9 [ law ] or as directed by the court having jurisdiction over the defendant [ judge ].

(c) Pre/post-sentence investigation reports (PSIRS). Pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, art 42.12, §9 the [ The ] CSCD director shall ensure a CSO prepares, (or approves, [ that a community supervision officer(s) will prepare, (or approve, ] if prepared by others) a [ (PSIR) ] pre-sentence [ presentence ] investigation report on a felony defendant [ offender ] unless the defendant's punishment is to be assessed by a jury, the defendant is convicted of or enters a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to capital murder, the only available punishment is imprisonment, or the judge is informed that a plea bargain agreement exists, under which the defendant agrees to a punishment of imprisonment, and the judge intends to follow the agreement. The CSCD director shall ensure that CSOs [ a community supervision officer(s) will ] prepare (or review and approve) , if prepared by another a post-sentence [ a postsentence ] investigation report if the judge has requested the preparation of such a report in accordance with the provisions of Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, art 42.12 §9(k). A CSO [ . A community supervision officer ] shall prepare (or review and approve, if prepared by another [ approve ]) a PSIR on all misdemeanor defendants [ offenders ] unless the defendant requests a report not be made and the court agrees, or if the court finds there is sufficient information in the record to permit the meaningful exercise of sentencing discretion. [ The PSIR shall provide the court with accurate, objective, and relevant elements in accordance with statutory requirements. ]

(d) PSIR format. CSCD directors shall ensure that CSOs and any other designated individuals who prepare, complete, review or approve [ community supervision officers (or designated others) completing ] PSIRs follow, at a minimum, an approved TDCJ-CJAD PSIR format in preparing felony PSIRs. CSOs [ PSI reports. Community supervision officers ] may use a format other than the TDCJ-CJAD PSIR format as long as the content requirements outlined in Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, art 42.12, §9(a) and the preceding subsection (c) of this section are met and are in the format as [ is ] approved both by TDCJ-CJAD and the court having jurisdiction of the defendant .

(e) Staffing for PSIRS. CSCD directors shall have the necessary trained staff and resources to conduct pre-sentence [ presentence ] investigations on all cases and shall provide written reports of the results for the courts for all felony and misdemeanor cases as required by the law and the court.

(f) (No change.)

(g) Transfer to the TDCJ. If a PSIR has been prepared as set forth in subsections (c) and (d) of this section, the CSCD director [ directors ] shall forward to the [ a ] county that transfers a defendant [ an offender ] to the TDCJ that defendant's [ offender's ] PSIR [ prepared according to the TDCJ-CJAD format for PSIRs ], as well as any other information required by law . To the extent it is available, CSOs shall also forward to the county that transfers the defendant any additional information that has been, [ , if a PSIR has been prepared. Additional information, if ] prepared by a CSO [ community supervision officer ] for a revocation or other hearing updating information in the PSIRs[ , shall also be forwarded to the county for the offender's transfer to the TDCJ ].

(h) (No change.)

§163.39.Residential Services.

(a) General administration.

(1) Purpose. Residential facilities and contract residential beds funded by TDCJ-CJAD shall provide the courts with a sentencing alternative for the purpose of:

(A) confining offenders placed on community supervision and others who are eligible in accordance with statutes; [ and ]

(B) providing sanctions, services, and programs to modify criminal behavior, deter criminal activity, protect the public and restore victims of crime ; and [ . ]

(C) strengthening and expanding the options that are available to judges to impose alternatives other than imprisonment for offenders who violate court-ordered conditions of community supervision.

(2) Feasibility studies. A judicial district [ The CSCD/agency ] interested in establishing a residential Community Corrections Facility (CCF) [ or County Correctional Center ] shall first conduct and prepare a feasibility study in accordance with the TDCJ-CJAD Feasibility Study Guidelines-Community Corrections Facility (January 2002). The product and results of such feasibility study shall be submitted to TDCJ-CJAD. After the receipt by TDCJ-CJAD of the initial feasibility study related to a proposed CCF, the CSCD/agency may be required to provide supplemental information or additional materials for further review and consideration [ TDCJ-CJAD residential guidelines for feasibility studies and provide the results to TDCJ-CJAD ].

(3) Notice of Construction or Operation of a CCF or Other Facilities [ Facility ].

(A) If a CSCD or private vendor operating under a contract with a CSCD or judicial district proposes to construct or operate a CCF or other correctional or rehabilitation facility within 1,000 feet of a residential area, a primary or secondary school, property designated as a public park or public recreation area by the state or a political subdivision of the state, or a church, synagogue, or other place of worship, the CSCD must prominently post an outdoor sign at the proposed location of the facility. The sign must be at least 24 by 36 inches in size written in lettering at least two inches in size. The sign must state that a correctional or rehabilitation facility is intended to be located on the premises, and provide the name and business address of the CSCD. The municipality or county in which the CCF or other correctional or rehabilitation facility is to be located may require the sign to be both in English and a language other than English if it is likely that a substantial number of the residents in the area speak a language other than English as their familiar language.

(B) The CSCD must provide notice of the proposed location of the CCF [ facility ] to the commissioners court of the county and/or governing body of the municipality where the facility is intended to be located if the commissioners court or governing body has submitted, by resolution, a written request to receive notice.

(4) Public Meetings. A CSCD or private vendor having a contract with a CSCD or judicial district may not establish a CCF or other correctional or rehabilitation facility [ community corrections facility ] unless the community justice council serving the CSCD has held a public meeting before the action is taken. In addition, a CSCD may not expend funds provided by TDCJ-CJAD to lease or purchase [ the Community Justice Assistance Division, acquire ] real property, construct buildings, or use a facility or real property acquired or improved with state funds for a CCF [ community corrections facility ] unless the community justice council serving the CSCD has held a public meeting before the action is taken. The public meeting must be held at a site as close as practicable to the location at which the proposed action is to be taken. The meeting must not be held on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday. The meeting must begin after 6:00 p.m. More than 30 days before the date of the meeting, the department that the facility is to serve, or a vendor proposing to operate a facility, at a minimum must:

(A) publish by advertisement in three consecutive issues of a newspaper of, or in newspapers that collectively have, general circulation in the county in which the proposed facility is to be located a notice that is not less than 3 1/2 inches by 5 inches containing the following information:

(i) the date, hour, place, subject of the hearing;

(ii) address of the facility or property on which a proposed action is to be taken; and

(iii) a description of the proposed action[ ; and ]

(B) (No change.)

(5) Maximum Resident Capacity and Facility Utilization. The maximum resident capacity of a CCF [ or CCC ] shall be defined as the total number of offenders who can be housed at the facility at any given time as delineated [ determined ] by the operating agency in the most current community justice plan and approved by the TDCJ-CJAD director. CCFs [ and CCCs ] funded through TDCJ-CJAD shall reach 90% capacity within the first six months of operation and maintain a minimum of 90% thereafter, utilizing appropriate and eligible placements only. Any revisions to the maximum and minimum resident capacities for the CCF shall be subject to the approval by TDCJ-CJAD through the community justice plan amendment process.

(6) Contract Residential Services. Business entities, agencies or persons contracting with CSCDs or judicial districts for residential services shall comply with all applicable competitive bidding and other laws and regulations. CSCDs or judicial districts contracting with business entities, agencies or persons for residential services shall comply with any applicable competitive bidding and other laws and regulations. The CSCD director shall monitor, audit, and inspect the performance and compliance of the service provider and vendor with the terms and conditions of their contract with the CSCD and with applicable laws and regulations. [ Contract Residential Facilities (CRF). CSCD directors or designees contracting for residential services to operate CCFs and CCCs with TDCJ-CJAD funds shall ensure that the contract residential service provider adheres to all applicable statutes, TDCJ-CJAD standards, policies, guidelines, and terms of the contract between the CSCD and the said provider. ]

(7) Mission Statement. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall prepare and maintain a mission statement that describes [ reflects ] the general purposes [ purpose ] and overall goals of the CCF's programs [ program ].

(b) Personnel.

(1) Screening for Tuberculosis Infection. The CSCD director or CCF director [ designee ] shall ensure that as soon as practicable but not later than within 7 calendar days of [ prior to ] assuming any duties within a CCF [ or CCC, ] all staff undergo a screening for tuberculosis infection. Follow-up screening for tuberculosis infection shall be conducted on all staff, at a minimum, once every year from the anniversary date of the initial screening. The results of all screenings shall be maintained on file.

(2) (No change.)

(3) Criminal Histories and Arrest Records. Prior to employment, and on at least an annual or more frequent basis thereafter, criminal histories and arrest records shall be obtained from both the Texas Department of Public Safety and National Crime Information Center on each of the CCF's employees, contract vendor staff (if applicable) and volunteers. This requirement shall apply to both vendor contract and CSCD operated CCFs. Copies of the criminal history and arrest information and records shall be retained in the individual's personnel file.

(c) Building, Safety, Sanitation and Health Codes [ Building and Safety Codes ].

(1) Compliance. The CSCD director and CCF director and personnel [ directors or designees ] shall ensure that facility's construction, maintenance, and operations complies with all applicable state, federal and local laws, building codes and regulations related to safety, sanitation and health. [ facility construction is in compliance with state statutes, codes, applicable federal laws, and local building and safety codes. ] Records of compliance inspections , [ or ] audits , or written reports by internal and external sources shall be kept on file for examination and review by TDCJ-CJAD and other governmental agencies and authorities for all time periods from project or program inception forward. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall promptly notify the TDCJ-CJAD in writing of any circumstances wherein the facility or its operations do not [ if the facility does not ] maintain such compliance.

(2) Water supply. The CSCD directors or designees shall ensure that the facility's potable water source and supply must be sanitary and be approved by an independent, qualified agency or individual to be in compliance with the applicable governmental laws and regulations. [ Fire, Safety, and Health and Sanitation Codes. The CSCD directors or designees shall ensure that the facility complies with the applicable governmental regulations of the fire, safety, and health and sanitation authorities. Facility personnel shall plan and execute all reasonable procedures for the prevention and prompt control of fire so as to ensure the safety of staff, offenders, and visitors. Documentation of fire, safety, and health and sanitation inspections shall be provided to TDCJ-CJAD upon request. In the event that no applicable local, city, or county codes exist, state codes shall prevail. The facility shall also maintain compliance with minimum guidelines established by TDCJ-CJAD for physical plants of CCFs. Fire prevention regulations and practices to ensure the safety of staff, offenders, and visitors shall include, but are not limited to: ]

[(A) provision of an adequate fire protection service;]

[(B) a system of fire inspections and testing of equipment at least quarterly;]

[(C) an annual inspection by local or state fire officials or other qualified persons(s); and]

[(D) available fire protection equipment at appropriate locations throughout the facility.]

(3) Sanitation. The facility audits operations shall conform with the applicable sanitation and health regulations and codes. [ Contract Residential Services (CRS). CSCDs, sheriffs' departments, or other governmental entities that contract for residential beds/services shall ensure that CRS providers under contract through TDCJ-CJAD funds maintain compliance with local and state safety, health, and sanitation codes, and ordinances. ]

(4) Waste. The liquid and solid wastes related to the facility audits operations shall be collected, stored and disposed of in accordance with an approved plan by the appropriate regulatory authority, agency, or department.

(5) Physical plant. The facility's buildings, including the improvements, fixtures, electric, and heating and air conditioning, shall conform to all applicable building codes of federal, state and local laws, ordinances, regulations, and minimum guidelines established by the TDCJ-CJAD for physical plants and facilities housing offenders.

(6) Fires. The facility, its furnishings, fire protection equipment and alarm shall comply with the regulations of the fire authority having jurisdiction. There shall be a written evacuation plan to be used in the event of a fire. The plan is to be certified by an independent qualified governmental agency or department or individual trained in the application of national and state fire safety codes. Such plan shall be reviewed annually, updated if necessary, and reissued to the local fire jurisdiction. The facility shall have a qualified person conduct a fire inspection at least quarterly or at other intervals approved by the fire authority having jurisdiction. Fire safety equipment located at the facility shall be tested as specified by the manufacturer or the fire authority, whichever is more frequent. An annual inspection of the facility shall be secured from the fire authority having jurisdiction or other qualified person(s).

(7) Emergency plans. There shall be written emergency plans for the facility and its operations, which include an evacuation plan, to be used in the event of a major flood, storm, or other emergencies. This plan is reviewed annually and updated, if necessary. Evacuation drills are to be conducted at least monthly. Each shift at least every quarter must have conducted an evacuation drill when the majority of offenders are present. All facility personnel must be trained in the implementation of written emergency plans. The evacuation plan should specify preferred evacuation routes, subsequent dispositions and temporary housing of offenders, and provision for access to medical care or hospital transportation for injured offenders and/or staff. The facility's emergency plan(s) shall be distributed to local authorities such as law enforcement, state police, civil defense, etc. to keep them informed of their roles in the event of an emergency. Such emergency plan(s) shall include the following:

(A) location of buildings/room floor plan;

(B) use of exit signs and directional arrows that are easily seen and red; and

(C) location(s) of publicly posted plan.

(d) Separate Inmate Housing. The CSCD director and CCF director [ directors or designees ] shall ensure that a facility that is part of or attached to a detention facility or a correctional institution shall house facility offenders separately from the inmates. At no time shall CCF residents/offenders be co-mingled with inmates.

(e) Program and Service Areas.

(1) Space and Furnishings. CCFs [ The facility ] shall have space and furnishings to accommodate activities such as group meetings, private counseling, classroom activities, visitation, and recreation.

(2) Housekeeping and Maintenance. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall ensure that the facility is clean and in good repair , and a housekeeping and maintenance plan is in effect .

(3) Other Physical Environment and Facilities Issues [ Sanitation ]. There shall be written policy and procedures to ensure the following with respect to the CCF: [ . ]

(A) -(G) (No change.)

(f) Supervision.

(1) Operations Manual. An [ The ] operations manual[ , which ] shall be prepared for and used by each CCF which shall contain information and specify procedures and policies for offender census, contraband, supervision, physical plant inspection and emergency procedures, including detailed implementation instructions. Such operation manual shall be accessible to all employees and volunteers [ contain all procedures for facility security and supervision with detailed implementation instructions, shall be accessible to all employees and volunteers ]. The operations manual shall include, at a minimum, the matters set forth [ guidelines as noted ] in the Guidelines for the Policies and Procedures of TDCJ-CJAD Funded Residential Facilities , dated October 31, 2001 . The operations manual shall be submitted to the TDCJ-CJAD Director for review and approval, and such manual must have been approved by the TDCJ-CJAD director at least 60 days prior to acceptance of offenders into the facility [ and upon request thereafter ]. Offenders cannot be accepted into the facility until approval is granted by the TDCJ-CJAD. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall ensure that the operations manual is reviewed at least every two years, and new or revised policies and procedures are made available, including all changes, prior to implementation to designated staff and volunteers. This manual shall be submitted to TDCJ-CJAD upon request or for auditing purposes [ annually and updated as necessary ].

(2) Staffing Availability. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall ensure that the CCF [ facility ] has the staff needed to provide coverage of designated security posts, surveillance of offenders and to perform ancillary functions. The facility shall have at least one staff member, on duty, who is the same gender as the resident population.

(3) Activity Log. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall ensure that CCF staff maintain an activity log and prepare shift reports that record, at a minimum, emergency situations, unusual situations, unusual incidents and record all absences of offenders from a facility.

(4) Use of Force. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall ensure that a CCF has written policies, procedures, and practices that restrict the use of physical force [ policy defines the use of force ] to instances of self-protection, protection of offenders or others or [ , ] prevention of property damage [ and only as a last resort in accordance with statutory authority ]. In no event is the use of physical force against an offender justifiable as punishment. A written report shall be prepared following all uses of force , and all such written reports [ and ] shall be promptly submitted to the CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] for review and follow-up. The application of restraining devices, aerosol sprays, chemical agents, etc. [ devices/chemical agents ] shall be accomplished in an emergency by any individual in self-protection, protection of others or other circumstances as described previously [ self-defense or in the defense of another ].

(5) Use of Firearms. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall ensure that the possession of firearms by staff is banned and use of firearms is prohibited in or on facility property except in the execution of official duties by certified peace officers or other duly licensed law enforcement personnel [ court orders by law enforcement personnel ].

(6) Access to Facility. The facility shall be secured [ to provide that offenders remain within the facility and ] to prevent unrestricted access thereto by the general public or others without proper authorization.

(7) (No change.)

(8) Levels of Security. The CSCD director and CCF director must ensure that levels of security appropriate for the population served by the facility are maintained at all times. These levels of security must create, as a minimum, a monitored and structured environment in which a resident's interior and exterior movements and activities can be supervised by specific destination and time. The facility director or designee may, in his or her discretion, grant offenders exterior movements. Exterior movements include, but are not limited to employment programs, community service restitution, support/treatment programs, and programmatic incentives. The following minimum requirements must be met for all exterior movements:

(A) the CCF [ facility ] director or designee approves the exterior movement;

(B) - (C) (No change.)

[(D) a staff member makes random announced and/or unannounced personal or telephone contact(s) with the offender during the exterior movement;]

(D) [ (E) ] exterior movements involving programmatic incentives may only be granted if the following additional requirements are met:

(i) the offender meets all established requirements for the programmatic incentive, as determined by the supervisor of the program, and submits a written request for the exterior movement;

(ii) the requested absence will not exceed 72 hours unless there are unusual circumstances;

(iii) the offender provides an itinerary for the absence including method of travel, departure and arrival times, and locations during the exterior movement; [ and ]

(iv) the CCF [ facility ] director or designee approves the itinerary and establishes the conditions of the exterior movement involving programmatic incentives ; and [ . ]

(v) a staff member makes random contacts with the offender during the exterior movement.

(9) Emergency furloughs. The CCF [ facility ] director or designee may, in his or her discretion, grant an emergency furlough to an offender for the purpose of allowing the offender to attend a funeral, visit a seriously ill person, obtain medical treatment, or attend to other exceptional business. Emergency furloughs may only be granted if the following conditions are met:

(A) the offender submits a written request for the emergency furlough;

(B) the CCF [ facility ] director [ or designee ] verifies through an independent source including, but not limited to a physician, Red Cross representative, minister , rabbi, or a priest, that the presence of the offender is appropriate;

(C) the offender provides proposed itinerary including method of travel, departure and arrival times, and locations during the emergency furlough;

(D) the requested absence will not exceed 72 hours unless there are unusual circumstances;

(E) the court of original jurisdiction approves the travel if the offender will depart the State of Texas;

(F) the CCF [ facility ] director [ or designee ] approves the itinerary and establishes the conditions of the emergency furlough; and

(G) a staff member makes random announced and/or unannounced personal or telephone contacts with the offender to verify the location of the offender during the emergency furlough.

[(g) Safety and Emergency Procedures. A comprehensive written plan shall be formulated and implemented to ensure that offenders, as well as employees, shall remain protected in the event of emergencies, including mental/emotional aberrations, physical acting out, medical situations, riots, escapes, fires, and both natural and civil disasters.]

[(1) Evacuation Plans. A written emergency evacuation plan shall be posted. The plan shall be reviewed annually and updated as necessary.]

[(2) Evacuation Drills. The facility shall conduct, at a minimum, quarterly emergency evacuation drills, at different hours, under varied conditions.]

(g) [ (h) ] Client Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation. The facility must protect the offender residents [ clients ] from abuse, neglect and exploitation.

(h) [ (i) ] Rules and Discipline. There shall be documentation of program rule violations and the disciplinary process.

(1) Rules of Conduct. All incoming offenders and staff shall receive written rules of conduct which specify acts prohibited within the facility and penalties that can be imposed for various degrees of violation.

(2) Limitations of Corrective Actions. Specific limits on corrective actions and summary punishment shall be established and strictly adhered to in an effort to reduce the potential of staff participating in abusive behavior towards participants. Limits shall include:

(A) no physical contact by staff shall be made on a participant;

(B) no profanity, sexual, or racial comments shall be directed by staff at participants;

(C) program participants shall not be utilized to impose corrective actions on other participants;

(D) the severity of the corrective action imposed shall be commensurate with the participant's program status;

(E) the severity of the corrective action shall be commensurate with the severity of the infraction; and,

(F) the duration of corrective action shall be limited to the minimum time necessary to achieve effectiveness.

(3) Grievance Procedure. A grievance procedure shall be available to all offenders in CCFs. Such grievance procedure shall include at least one level of appeal, and shall be evaluated at least annually to determine its efficiency and effectiveness. [ Incident Notification. The TDCJ-CJAD director shall be notified in writing, within 24 hours, when the following incidents occur at the facility: offender or staff member's death while at the facility; any incident which results in serious bodily injury to a resident or staff member while at the facility or on assignment away from the facility; and, riot/major facility disturbance. ]

(i) Incident Notification. Within 24 hours of occurrence, the CSCD director and CCF director shall notify and report by telephone or fax all serious or unusual events pertaining to the CCF's operations, staff, and residents to: the judge or one of the judges supervising the department and the TDCJ Emergency Action Center (EAC) in Huntsville, Texas. The EAC shall be responsible for notifying the TDCJ-CJAD Director and appropriate CJAD management staff. Such serious and unusual events for this purpose shall include, but are not limited to the following:

(1) the death of an offender or staff member while at the facility and

(2) any incident which results in life threatening or serious bodily injury to a an offender resident or staff member while at the facility or on assignment (including emergency furloughs or programmatic incentives) away from the facility; and

(3) major disturbance or riot at the facility or in its vicinity.

(j) Offenders' Rights. Offenders [ The offender ] shall be granted access to courts, counsel, and confidential contact with attorneys and their authorized representatives. Such contacts include, but are not limited to: telephone communications, uncensored correspondence, and visits.

(k) Offender Eligibility. A CSCD[ , sheriff's department, ] or other governmental entity that operates a residential facility, contracts for the operation of a residential facility, or contracts for beds/services, shall define a specific target population of offenders to be served. Placement of offenders in a CCF shall only be by an order of the court and shall meet minimum eligibility criteria as outlined in this section.

(1) (No change.)

(2) Offenders are eligible for placement into a CCF [ Community Corrections Facility (CCF) ]:

(A) - (C) (No change.)

(3) (No change.)

[(4) Offenders are eligible for placement into County Correctional Centers (CCC):]

[(A) if convicted of a misdemeanor and sentenced to a term of confinement in the county jail;]

[(B) in lieu of jail time as a condition of misdemeanor or felony community supervision;]

[(C) in lieu of jail time as a punishment for violation of conditions of community supervision; or,]

[(D) if required as a condition of community supervision to participate in a work program or counseling program through a CCC.]

(4) [ (5) ] Offenders are eligible for placement into a Boot Camp:

(A) if prior to placement, or within seven days after admission, the offender undergoes a physical examination to determine any medical problems that may prevent the offender from satisfactorily participating in the program. The physical examination report shall be maintained in the offender's medical file; and

(B) if prior to placement, or within seven days after admission, the offender undergoes a psychological screening to determine any psychological problems that may prevent the offender from satisfactorily participating in the program. The psychological screening report shall be maintained in the offender's medical file.

(l) Courtesy Supervision. CCFs [ or CCCs ] shall, on a space available basis, accept eligible adult offenders needing the residential services on courtesy supervision from other jurisdictions. CSCDs that manage CCFs [ or CCCs ] are responsible for the direct supervision of all offenders in the CCF [ or CCC ] while in the residential placement.

(m) Denying Admission or Continued Placement. If an offender is placed into a CCF [ community corrections facility or a county correctional center ] as a condition of community supervision and the offender is an inappropriate placement, by statute or standard, or does not meet eligibility criteria of the facility as approved by the TDCJ-CJAD, the CSCD[ /agency director ] or CCF director [ designee ] who is responsible for the management of the CCF[ /CCC ] shall notify, in writing, the court of original jurisdiction of these circumstances. If a CCF facility has reached capacity at the time of the eligible offender's placement to that facility, such offender [ . If placement occurs as a condition of community supervision, an eligible offender for residential placement ] may be placed on a waiting list for that facility and [ or ] returned to the court of original jurisdiction for further instructions or an alternative sanction [ for an alternative sanction if the facility has reached capacity ].

(n) Food Service. The food preparation and dining area must provide space for meal service based on the population size and need.

(1) - (2) (No change.)

(3) Food Service Management. Food service operations shall be supervised by a staff member who is experienced in institutional food preparation or mass food management. All food services staff, including offenders assigned to work in the facility kitchen, shall meet all requirements established [ be certified as required ] by the local health authorities [ authority ].

(4) (No change.)

(5) Meal Requirements. CSCD directors or CCF director [ designees ] shall ensure that at least three meals (including two hot meals) are provided during each 24-hour period. Variations may be allowed based on weekend and holiday food service demands, or in the event of emergency or security situations, provided basic nutritional goals are met.

(o) Health Care. [ Each facility shall maintain written policy and procedure to provide access to health care services, including medical, dental and mental health services, under the control of a designated health authority. When this authority is other than a physician, final medical judgments rest with a single designated responsible physician licensed in the state. Arrangements shall be made with health care providers in advance of need. ]

(1) Access To Care. [ Public and Private Agencies. The facility shall have a written policy providing residents access to routine medical services, and/or emergency medical services as necessary with a licensed general hospital, clinic or physician. ]

(A) Offenders shall have unimpeded access to health care and to a system for processing complaints regarding health care.

(B) The facility has a designated health authority with responsibility for health care pursuant to a written agreement, contract, or job description. The health authority may be a physician, health administrator, or health agency.

(C) Each CCF shall have a policy defining the level, if any, of financial responsibility to be incurred by the offender who receives the medical or dental services.

(2) Emergency Health Care. [ Twenty-four Hour Emergency Care. The CSCD director or designee shall have a written policy providing access to 24 hour emergency medical, psychiatric and dental care, which includes contingency plans and alternate hospitals or a physician "on call" service. ]

(A) Twenty-four hour emergency health care is provided for offenders, which included arrangements for the following:

(i) On site emergency first aid and crisis intervention;

(ii) Emergency evacuation of the offender from the facility;

(iii) Use of an emergency vehicle;

(iv) Use of one or more designated hospital emergency rooms or other appropriate health facilities;

(v) Emergency on-call physician, dentist, and mental health professional services when the emergency health facility is not located in a nearby community; and

(vi) Security procedures providing for the immediate transfer of offenders, when appropriate.

(B) A training program for Direct Care personnel is established by a recognized health authority in cooperation with the CCF director that includes the following:

(i) Signs, symptoms, and action required in potential emergency situations;

(ii) Administration of first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR);

(iii) Methods of obtaining assistance;

(iv) Signs and symptoms of mental illness, retardation, and chemical dependency; and

(v) Procedures for patient transfers to appropriate medical facilities or health-care providers.

(C) First aid kits are available in designated areas of the facility. Contents and locations are approved by the health authority.

(3) Health Screening and Medical Examinations. Medical, dental and mental health screening exam is performed by health-trained or qualified health-care personnel on all offenders prior to placement or within 10 days of placement. The screening includes the following: [ Health Screening. Prior to residential placement or within seven days of admission of offenders into residential facilities, a health screening or physical exam shall be conducted to identify any physical/mental ailments or contagious/communicable diseases that would affect placement and/or endanger other residents or staff. ]

(A) Inquiry into:

(i) Current illness and health problems, including venereal diseases and other infectious diseases;

(ii) Dental problems;

(iii) Mental health problems, including suicide attempts or ideation;

(iv) Use of alcohol and other drugs, which includes types of drugs used, mode of use, amounts used, frequency of use, date or time of last use, and a history of problems that may have occurred after ceasing use (for example, convulsions); and

(v) Other health problems designated by the responsible physician.

(B) Observation of:

(i) Behavior, which includes state of consciousness, mental status, appearance, conduct, tremor and sweating;

(ii) Body deformities, ease of movement, and so forth; and

(iii) Conditions of skin, including trauma markings, bruises, lesions, jaundice, rashes and infestations, and needle marks or other indications of drug abuse.

(C) Medical examinations are conducted for any employee or offender suspected of having a communicable disease.

(4) Serious and Infectious Diseases.

(A) The facility provides for the management of serious and infectious diseases.

(B) CCF's shall have policies and procedures to direct actions to be taken by employees concerning offenders who have been diagnosed with HIV, including, at a minimum, the following:

(i) When and where offenders are to be tested;

(ii) Appropriate safeguards for staff and offenders;

(iii) Staff and offender training;

(iv) Issues of confidentiality; and

(v) Counseling and support services.

(5) Dental Care. Access to dental care is made available to each offender.

(6) Medications.

(A) Policy and procedure direct the possession and use of controlled substances, prescribed medications, supplies, and over-the-counter drugs. Prescribed medications are administered according to the directions of the prescribing physician.

(B) If medications are distributed by facility staff, records are maintained and audited monthly, and include the date, time, and name of the resident receiving the medication, and the name of the staff distributing it.

(7) Female Offenders. If female offenders are housed, access to pregnancy management services is made available.

(8) Mental Health. Access to mental health services is made available to offenders.

(9) Suicide Prevention. There is a written suicide prevention and intervention program that is reviewed and approved by a qualified medical or mental health professional. All staff with offender supervision responsibilities are trained in the implementation of the suicide prevention program.

(10) Personnel.

(A) If treatment is provided to offenders by health-care personnel other than a physician, dentist, psychologist, optometrist, podiatrist, or other independent provider, such treatment is performed pursuant to written standing or direct orders by personnel authorized by law to give such orders.

(B) If the facility provides medical treatment, personnel who provide health-care services to offenders are qualified and appropriately licensed. Verification of current credentials and job descriptions are on file in the facility. Appropriate state and federal licensure, certification, or registration requirements, and restrictions apply.

(11) Informed Consent. If the facility provides medical treatment, offenders make medical decisions with informed consent. All informed consent standards in the jurisdiction are observed and documented for offender care.

(12) Participation in Research. Offenders do not participate in medical, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic experiments. This does not preclude individual treatment of an offender based on his or her need for a specific medical procedure that is not generally available.

(13) Notification. Individuals designated by the offender are notified in case of serious illness or injury.

(14) Health Records.

(A) If medical treatment is provided by the facility, accurate health records for offenders are maintained separately and confidentially.

(B) If medical treatment is provided by the facility, the method of recording entries in the records, the form and format of the records, and the procedures for their maintenance and safekeeping are approved by the health authority.

(C) If medical treatment is provided by the facility, for the offenders being transferred to other facilities, summaries or copies of the medical history record are forwarded to the receiving facility prior to or at arrival.

(p) Discharge.

(1) Victim Notifications [ Notification ]. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall ensure there are procedures, policies and practices that comply with Texas Government Code §76.016 and other applicable laws as to the notifications to be made to certain crime victims of offenders who are residents in its facilities or subject to its programs. [ is a system for providing notification to the victim(s) of offenders convicted of family domestic violence crimes prior to the imminent release of the offender or subsequent to the offender's escape from custody. Follow-up notification to victim(s) shall occur whenever an escapee is returned to the facility. ]

(2) Discharge. Discharge from residential facilities shall be based on the following criteria:

(A) - (D) (No change.)

(E) the offender manifests a non-emergency medical problem that prohibits participation and/or completion of the residential program requirements;

(F) - (G) (No change.)

(3) Discharge Report. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall ensure that a report is prepared at the termination of program participation that reviews the offender's performance. A copy of the report shall be provided to the receiving CSCD supervision officer.

(q) (No change.)

(r) Mail, Telephone, and Visitation. The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall have written policies which govern the facility's mail, telephone, and visitation privileges for offenders, including mail inspection, public phone use, and routine and special visits. The policies shall address compelling circumstances in which an offender's mail both incoming and outgoing may be opened, but not read, to inspect for contraband.

(s) Religious Programs.

(1) The CSCD director and CCF director [ or designee ] shall have written policies that govern religious programs for offenders. The policies shall provide that offenders have the opportunity [ address the provision of opportunities for offenders ] to voluntarily practice the requirements of their religious [ respective ] faith , have access to worship/religious services, and the use or contact with [ and the use of ] community religious resources, when appropriate.

(2) Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code, chapter 110, a [ A ] CSCD or CCF may not substantially burden an offender's free exercise of religion except with the least restrictive measures in furtherance of a compelling interest. Pursuant to Texas Government Code §76.018, [ In court, ] there is a presumption that a policy or practice that applies to an offender in the custody of a CCF [ CSCD residential facility ] is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest and is the least restrictive means of furthering that interest. The presumption may be rebutted with evidence provided by the offender.

§163.40.Substance Abuse Treatment Standards.

(a) Definitions. The following words and terms, when used in this section, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

(1) (No change.)

(2) Chemical Dependency Counselor--A qualified , credentialed counselor or counselor intern working under direct supervision.

(3) - (4) (No change.)

(5) Counselor Intern--A person pursuing a course of training in chemical dependency counseling at a regionally accredited institution of higher education or a registered clinical training institution who has been designated as a counselor by the institution. The activities of a counselor intern shall be performed under the direct supervision of a qualified , credentialed counselor in accordance with rules adopted by the Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse.

(6) - (19) (No change.)

(b) - (c) (No change.)

(d) Admissions. There shall be documentation of specific admission criteria and procedures. Offenders are eligible for substance abuse treatment programs:

(1) - (2) (No change.)

(3) if the program allows readmissions and the offender meets the admission criteria. For offenders who are placed in treatment programs who do not meet admission criteria, a mechanism or procedure shall be developed for offender removal. A review and justification explaining the reason [ reason(s) ] the offender does not meet admission criteria shall be required.

(e) (No change.)

(f) Assessment procedures. Acceptable and recognized assessment tools (tests and measurements) shall be used in all substance abuse treatment programs. Assessment policies and procedures shall require the use of approved clinical measurements and screening tests. Assessment procedures shall include the following:

(1) - (3) (No change.)

(4) specified time-frames for initial and ongoing assessments; and

(5) (No change.)

(g) Assessments. The assessment shall include:

(1) a summary of the offender's [ offenders ] alcohol or drug abuse history including substances used, date of last use, date of first use, patterns and consequences of use, types of and responses to previous treatment , and periods of sobriety;

(2) (No change.)

(3) vocational and employment status, including skills or trades learned, work record , and current vocational plans;

(4) - (5) (No change.)

(6) a diagnostic summary signed and dated [ by the chemical dependency counselor, followed ] by a [ Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) or ] Qualified Credentialed Counselor (QCC).

(h) (No change.)

(i) Offender Rights. The offender's basic rights shall be respected and protected, free from abuse, neglect , and exploitation. Each provider shall have written policy and procedure to ensure protection of the offender's rights according to federal and state guidelines.

(j) (No change.)

(k) Offender Records. There shall be written policies and procedures regarding the content of offender records. Case records shall include[ , at a minimum, ] the following information at a minimum :

(1) - (9) (No change.)

(10) court order placing the [ placement of ] offender into the program[ , if applicable ].

(l) Offender Records Review Policy. There shall be written policy and procedures to govern the access of offenders to their own substance abuse treatment records in accordance with Texas Health and Safety Code [ §611.0045 ]. This access does not apply to criminal justice records. Restrictions to access to treatment records shall be specified and explained to offenders upon request. Exceptions must involve the potential for harm to the offender or others.

(m) (No change.)

(n) Treatment Progress Notes. There shall be written policies and procedures to require all programs to record and maintain progress notes on all offender case records, to document counseling sessions, and to summarize significant events that occur throughout the treatment process. Progress notes shall be documented at a minimum of once each [ per ] week.

(o) - (p) (No change.)

(q) Discharge Summary A discharge summary shall be prepared by the primary counselor for each offender prior to leaving any substance abuse program. The discharge summary shall provide a summation of:

(1) (No change.)

(2) the problems or needs and [ , ] strengths or weaknesses identified on the master treatment plan;

(3) - (6) (No change.)

(r) General Program Services Provisions. Specific services shall be required of all substance abuse treatment programs. Written policy and procedures shall ensure the following:

(1) All substance abuse services shall be delivered according to a written treatment plan ; [ . ]

(2) All programs shall employ a Qualified Credentialed Counselor as the Program Director, Clinical Director, Senior Counselor, or the counselor in a similar supervisory position ; [ . ]

(3) The program shall include culturally diverse curriculum applicable to the population served and [ . This ] shall be accomplished through demonstrated, appropriate counseling and instructional materials ; [ . ]

(4) Members of the offender treatment team shall demonstrate effective communications and coordination, as evidenced in staffing, treatment planning and case-management documentation ; [ . ]

(5) There shall be written policies and procedures regarding the delivery and administration of prescription and nonprescription medication which provide for:

(A) conformity with state regulations; and

(B) (No change.)

(6) Chemical dependency education shall follow a course outline that identifies lecture topics and major points to be discussed ; [ . ]

(7) The program shall provide education about the health risks of tobacco products and nicotine addiction ; [ . ]

(8) The program shall provide HIV education based on the Model Workplace Guidelines for Direct Service Providers developed by the Texas Department of Health ; [ . ]

(9) Offenders shall have access to HIV counseling and testing services directly or through referral ; [ . ]

(A) -(C) (No change.)

(10) The program shall make testing and [ , as well as ] information, for tuberculosis and sexually transmitted diseases available to all offenders, unless the program has access to test results obtained during the past year ; [ . ]

(A) - (C) (No change.)

(11) (No change.)

(s) Levels of treatment. All CCFs providing substance abuse treatment shall designate in the current facility's CJP program proposal levels of treatment to be provided as described in subsections (t) - (x) of this section. If the program utilizes a Modified Therapeutic Community modality of treatment, it shall include the following as minimal components.

(1) a structure board;

(2) encounter, counseling and family groups;

(3) utilization of a three phase process. (Offenders shall transition from Phase 1, to Phase 2 to Phase 3 by meeting objectives and program goals.);

(4) graduated treatment sanctions for incidents of non-compliance in coordination with the transitional treatment team; and

(5) other peer-support groups.

(t) [ (s) ] Detoxification. Written policies and procedures shall ensure the following : [ . ]

(1) All offenders admitted to Detoxification programs shall need detoxification.

(2) Every offender shall have a completed medical history and physical.

(A) Residential offenders shall have a completed physical and medical history and a physical within 24 hours of admission. If the facility cannot meet this deadline because of exceptional circumstances, the circumstances shall be documented in the offender record. Until an offender's medical history and physical is complete, staff shall observe offenders closely (no less than every 15 minutes) and monitor vital signs (no less than once each hour).

(B) Outpatient offenders shall have the medical history and physical completed before admission.

(3) The program shall provide continuous supervision for offenders.

(A) In residential programs, direct care staff shall be awake and on site 24 hours a day.

(i) During day and evening hours, at least two awake staff shall be on duty for the first 12 offenders, with one more person on duty for each additional one to 16 offenders.

(ii) At night, at least one awake staff member shall be on duty for the first 12 offenders, with one more person on duty for each additional one to 16 offenders.

(B) In outpatient programs, direct care staff shall be awake and on site whenever an offender is on site. Offenders shall have access to on-call staff 24 hours a day.

(4) If the program accepts offenders with acute detoxification symptoms or a history of acute detoxification symptoms, the program shall have:

(A) a licensed vocational nurse or registered nurse on duty during all hours of operation;

(B) a physician on-call 24 hours a day.

(5) Level of observation shall be based on medical recommendations and program design, or not less than that described in paragraph (2)(A) of this subsection.

(6) A physician shall approve all medical policies, procedures, guidelines, tools, and forms, which shall include:

(A) screening instruments (including a medical risk assessment) and procedures;

(B) treatment protocol or standing orders for each chemical the program is prepared to address in detoxification; and

(C) emergency procedures.

(7) The clinical supervisor shall be a physician, physician assistant, advanced practice nurse, or registered nurse.

(8) The program shall:

(A) ensure continuous access to emergency medical care;

(B) provide offenders access to mental health evaluation and linkage with mental health services when indicated;

(C) use written procedures to encourage offenders to seek appropriate treatment after detoxification.

(9) Direct care staff shall complete detoxification training provided by a physician, physician assistant, advanced practice nurse, or registered nurse that includes instruction in the following areas:

(A) signs of withdrawal;

(B) pregnancy-related complications (if the program admits females of child-bearing age);

(C) observation and monitoring procedures;

(D) appropriate intervention; and

(E) complications requiring transfer ; [ . ]

(10) Staff shall assist each offender in developing an individualized post-detoxification plan that includes appropriate referrals.

(u) [ (t) ] Relapse/Intensive Residential Treatment. Written policies and procedures shall ensure the following:

(1) All offenders admitted to relapse intensive residential treatment shall be medically stable, and able to participate in treatment.

(2) The program shall provide adequate staff for close supervision and individualized treatment with counselor caseloads not to exceed ten (10) offenders.

(3) There shall be direct care staff alert and on site during all hours of operation. There shall be an appropriate number of direct care staff to provide all required program services, maintain an environment that is conducive to treatment, and ensure the safety and security of the offenders, according to the design of the facility and with the approval of the funding sources.

(4) For programs 45 days or less counselors [ Counselors ] shall complete a comprehensive offender assessment and individual treatment plan within five (5) [ three ] working days of admission. All other programs shall complete a comprehensive offender assessment and individual treatment plan within ten (10) working days.

[(5) An individualized treatment plan shall be completed for all offenders within five working days of admission.]

(5) [ (6) ] The facility shall deliver not less than 20 hours of structured activities per week for each offender, including:

(A) ten (10) hours of chemical dependency counseling, with no less than one hour of individual counseling;

(B) seven hours additional education, counseling, life skills, or rehabilitation activities; and

(C) three hours of structured social or recreational activities.

(6) [ (7) ] Counseling and education schedules shall be submitted to the funding entity for approval.

(7) [ (8) ] Each offender shall have an opportunity to participate in physical recreation at least weekly.

(8) [ (9) ] Program staff shall offer chemical dependency education or services to identified significant others.

(9) [ (10) ] The program shall provide each offender with opportunities to apply knowledge and practice skills in a structured, supportive environment.

[(11) If the program utilizes a Modified Therapeutic Community modality of treatment it shall include the following as minimal components:]

[(A) a Structure Board;]

[(B) encounter, counseling and family groups;]

[(C) utilization of a three phase process. (Offenders shall transition from Phase 1, to Phase 2, to Phase 3, by meeting objectives and program goals);]

[(D) graduated treatment sanctions for incidents of non-compliance in coordination with the Transitional Treatment Team; and]

[(E) other peer-support groups.]

(v) [ (u) ] Primary Care[ /Modified Therapeutic Community ] Treatment. Written policies and procedures shall ensure the following : [ . ]

(1) All offenders admitted to primary care [ modified therapeutic community ] treatment shall be medically stable, and able to participate in treatment.

(2) The program shall provide adequate staff for close supervision and individualized treatment with counselor caseloads not to exceed sixteen (16) [ 20 ] offenders.

(3) There shall be direct care staff alert and on site during all hours of operation. There shall be an appropriate number of direct care staff to provide all required program services, maintain an environment that is conducive to treatment, and ensure the safety and security of the offenders, according to the design of the facility and with the approval of the funding source.

(4) Counselors shall complete a comprehensive offender assessment within ten (10) [ five (5) ] working days of admission for all offenders admitted to a primary care treatment program, and an individualized treatment plan shall be completed for all offenders within ten (10) working days of admission [ therapeutic community program ].

[(5) An individualized treatment plan shall be completed for all offenders within seven working days of admission.]

(5) [ (6) ] Length of stay shall be offender-driven based upon:

(A) the offender's successful completion of treatment goals;

(B) medical and psychological appropriateness for the program;

(C) the offender's compliance with the programs rules and regulations.

(6) [ (7) ] The facility shall deliver no [ not ] less than twenty (20) hours of structured activities per week for each offender, including:

(A) ten (10) hours of chemical dependency counseling, with no less than one hour of individual counseling per month;

(B) seven hours additional education, counseling, life skills, or rehabilitation activities; and

(C) three hours of structured social or recreational activities.

(7) [ (8) ] Counseling and education schedules shall be submitted to the funding entity for approval.

(8) [ (9) ] Each offender shall have an opportunity to participate in physical recreation at least four hours per week.

(9) [ (10) ] Program staff shall offer chemical dependency education or services to identified significant others.

(10) [ (11) ] The program shall provide each offender with opportunities to apply knowledge and proactive skills in a structured, supportive environment.

[(12) All Therapeutic Communities shall have the following as minimal components:]

[(A) a Structure Board;]

[(B) encounter, counseling, and family groups;]

[(C) Utilization of a three phase process. (Offenders shall transition from Phase 1, to Phase 2, to Phase 3, by meeting objectives and program goals); ]

[(D) graduated treatment sanctions for incidents of non-compliance in coordination with the Transitional Treatment Team; and]

[(E) other peer-support groups.]

(w) [ (v) ] Community Residential Treatment. Written policies and procedures shall ensure the following : [ . ]

(1) All offenders admitted to community [ intensive ] residential treatment shall be medically stable, able to function with limited supervision and support, and be able to participate in work release or community service/restitution programs.

(2) The program shall have adequate staff to meet treatment needs within the context of the program description, with counselor caseloads not to exceed 16 offenders , or twenty (20) for modified therapeutic community .

(3) There shall be direct care staff alert and on site during all hours of operation. There shall be an appropriate number of direct care staff to provide for the safety and security of the offenders, according to the design of the facility and with the approval of the funding.

(4) Counselors shall complete a comprehensive offender assessment and individualized treatment plan within ten (10) [ five ] working days of admission for all offenders.

(5) The facility shall deliver no less than ten (10) hours of structured activities per week for each offender, including at least five hours of chemical dependency counseling and programming of no less than four hours of chemical dependency counseling and four hours of structured activities per week shall be provided in a modified therapeutic community program .

(6) Counseling and education schedules shall be submitted to the funding entity for approval.

(7) The program design and application shall include increasing levels of responsibility for offenders and frequent opportunities for offenders to apply knowledge and practice skills in structured and unstructured settings.

[(8) If the program utilizes a Modified Therapeutic Community modality of treatment, it shall include the following components:]

[(A) a Structure Board;]

[(B) encounter, counseling and family groups;]

[(C) utilization of a three phase process. (Offenders shall transition from Phase 1, to Phase 2, to Phase 3, by meeting objectives and program goals);]

[(D) graduated treatment sanctions for incidents of non-compliance in coordination with the Transitional Treatment Team;]

[(E) other peer-support groups;]

[(F) counselor caseloads not to exceed 20 offenders per counselor; and]

[(G) programming of no less than four hours of chemical dependency counseling and four hours of structured activities per week.]

(x) [ (w) ] Outpatient treatment. Written policies and procedures shall ensure the following:

(1) All offenders admitted to outpatient programs shall be medically stable, and have appropriate support systems in the community to live independently with minimal structure.

(2) The program shall have adequate staff to provide offenders support and guidance to ensure effective service delivery, safety, and security. Staffing patterns shall be submitted to the funding entity.

(3) The program shall set limits on counselor caseload size to ensure effective, individualized treatment and rehabilitation. Criteria used to set the caseload size shall be documented and approved by the funding entity.

(4) Didactic groups shall not exceed 30 offenders in a group.

(5) Therapeutic groups shall not exceed 16 offenders in a group.

(6) For offenders in supportive outpatient programs, counselors shall complete a comprehensive offender assessment within 30 calendar days of admission for all offenders.

(7) For offenders in intensive outpatient programs, counselors shall complete a comprehensive offender assessment within ten (10) calendar days of admission for all offenders.

(8) Intensive outpatient programs shall deliver no less than ten (10) hours of structured activities per week for each offender, including at least five (5) hours of chemical dependency counseling.

(9) Supportive outpatient programs shall deliver no less than two hours of structured activities per week for each offender, including at least one hour of chemical dependency counseling.

(10) Counseling and education schedules shall be submitted to the funding entity for approval.

(11) The program design and application shall include increasing levels of responsibility for offenders and frequent opportunities for offenders to apply knowledge and practice skills in structured and unstructured settings.

(12) The outpatient treatment levels may be utilized for residents in the work release phase of any residential substance abuse treatment program.

(y) [ (x) ] Special Populations. Written policies and procedures shall ensure the following : [ . ]

(1) Programs that address the special mental health, intellectual capacity, or medical needs of offenders must provide appropriate treatment either by program staff or through contracted services.

(2) Admission to a special needs program must be based on a documented mental health, intellectual capacity, or medical need.

(3) When the assessment process indicates that the offender has coexisting disabilities/disorders, the Treatment Plan shall specifically address those issues that might impact treatment, recovery, relapse, and/or [ and or ] recidivism.

(4) Personnel shall be available who are qualified in the treatment of coexisting disabilities/disorders.

(5) Within 96 hours of admission to a special needs residential program, offenders shall be administered a medical and psychological evaluation.

(6) Within ten (10) days of admission to a residential program for special needs offenders, the program administrator or designee shall contact the Texas Council on Offenders with Mental Impairments [ (TCOMI) ] regarding the offender's status . As soon as discharge date is projected, TCOMI shall be notified in writing of [ and ] plans for a continuum of care after discharge, regardless of whether or not the discharge is for successful completion of the program.

(7) Residential facilities providing services for special needs populations shall have procedures to provide access to health care services, including medical, dental, and mental health services, under the control of a designated health authority. When this authority is other than a physician, final medical judgments must rest with a single designated responsible physician licensed by the state.

(A) Services/treatment shall be directed toward maximizing the functioning and reducing the symptoms of offenders.

(B) There shall be written policies and procedures regarding the delivery and administration of prescription and nonprescription medication which provide for:

(i) conformity with state regulations;

(ii) documentation of the rationale for use and goals of service/treatment consistent with the individual plan of treatment;

(iii) documentation of the administration of medications, medication errors, and drug reactions; and

(iv) procedures to follow in case of emergencies.

(8) There shall be procedures for documenting that the offender has been informed of medication management procedures.

(9) Offenders shall be actively involved in decisions related to their medications.

(10) Programs for special needs offenders must follow the same staffing for treatment levels as the levels for other offenders, except all residential programs shall maintain caseloads of no greater than 16 offenders for each counselor.

(11) Programs operating in residential facilities shall ensure that offenders will have no less than ten (10) days of appropriate medication for use after discharge.

(z) [ (y) ] Residential Physical Plant Requirements. Facilities (Physical Plants) providing substance abuse treatment to offenders shall have written policies and procedures to ensure the following:

(1) The physical plant shall be located either within one [ a ] mile of public transportation or other means of available transportation.

(2) There must be documentation indicating that ventilation conforms with the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 62 and ASHRAE Standard 55 requiring 20 CFM per person minimum outside air and ventilation for each occupant or facility sleeping quarters. The facility/sleeping quarters must also meet Smoke Management Standards 92A, 92B and 204M established by the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA). Consultation with trade associations specializing in the area of ventilation can provide alternative methods of mechanical ventilation if windows are absent or not operable. Documentation for meeting proper ventilation requirements can be obtained through a local public health agency, an engineering consultant, or a trade association such as the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers [ Engineer ], Inc.

(3) There must be documentation that all sleeping quarters have lighting of at least 20 foot-candles in reading and grooming areas. Sleeping quarters shall be safe and provide the resident with adequate lighting which is conducive to reading and grooming .

(4) An adequate amount of floor space must be provided per resident in the facility's [ facility(ies) ]sleeping area to meet the safety and security requirements of the facility.

(5) In the sleeping area, each resident must be provided at a minimum: a bed, mattress , and pillow; supply of bed linen; and closet/locker space for the storage of personal items.

(6) Private counseling space with adequate furniture must be provided in the facility.

(7) Space and furnishings for activities such as group meetings and visits shall be provided in the facility.

(8) At a minimum, the facility shall have one operable toilet for every eight residents or increment thereof, or as approved by the funding entity. Urinals may be substituted for up to one-half of the toilets in male-populated facilities.

(9) At a minimum, the facility shall have one operable wash basin with temperature controlled hot and cold running water for every eight residents, or as approved by the funding agency.

(10) At a minimum, the facility shall have one operable shower or bathing facility with temperature controlled hot and cold running water for every twelve residents or as approved by funding entity. The water shall be thermostatically controlled to temperatures ranging from 100 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the safety of residents.

(11) The facility shall have the ability to handle the laundry needs on a daily basis for all residents.

(12) Facilities of more than 200 residents shall be subdivided into units of not more than 60 residents . Each unit will be [ , each of which are ] staffed with the number and variety of staff personnel required to provide the program services and custodial supervision needed based on contractual requirements. Units with 50 or fewer residents shall be permitted to conduct manageable, scaled programs based on decisions by facility management and contractual requirements.

(13) Resident population shall not exceed the rated space of the facility. The original facility plan shall be examined to determine its rated bed capacity. If remodeled since original construction, the latest blueprints or plans for each resident housing shall be used.

(14) When males and females are housed in the same facility, there shall be separate sleeping quarters with adequate supervision.

(15) There shall be identifiable exits in each housing area and other high density areas to permit the prompt evacuation of residents and staff under emergency conditions as approved by the local or state fire inspector/marshall [ inspector/marshal ] having jurisdiction.

(16) Where applicable, there shall be a separate day room (leisure time space) for each housing unit, and an outside recreation area shall be provided.

(17) There shall be a visiting room or area for contact visitation which is adequate to meet the needs and size of the facility.

(18) Space must be provided for administrative, custodial, professional, and clerical staff.

(19) Preventative maintenance of the physical plant which provides for emergency repairs or replacements in life threatening situations shall be documented and conducted on a timely and routine basis.

(20) There shall be documentation by a qualified source that the interior finishing material in resident living areas, exit areas, and places of public assembly are in accordance with [ applicable local ordinances or state laws as certified by ] the local or state fire inspector/marshall having jurisdiction.

(21) Exits in the facility must be in compliance with either state or local fire safety authorities.

(aa) [ (z) ] Special Physical Plant Provisions. There shall be written policy and procedures to ensure access for handicapped residents in a manner which provides for their safety and security. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), areas of the facility which are accessible to the public shall be also accessible to handicapped staff and visitors.

§163.41.Medical and Psychological Information.

(a) Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) policies. CSCD directors shall develop and implement policies relevant to HIV-AIDS in accordance with guidelines established by the Texas Department of Health and adopted by the TDCJ-CJAD. These policies will [ , to ] be incorporated in the CSCD's administrative manuals and [ , ] shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

(1) - (4) (No change.)

(b) (No change.)

(c) HIV confidentiality. Information regarding HIV-AIDS testing and results is confidential. HIV-AIDS information shall be maintained in a safe and secure manner with access to this confidential information restricted to only those persons who have been authorized to receive this information by law or with a duly executed release and waiver of confidentiality. The CSCD may disclose HIV-AIDS information relating to special offenders in accordance with Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 614 and the other statutes and authorities set forth in TDCJ-CJAD's Community Supervision and Corrections Department Records manual (October 10, 2000), as amended from time to time .

(d) Medical and psychological information. All records and other information concerning an offender's physical or mental state, including all information pertaining to an offender's HIV-AIDS status, are confidential in accordance with the statutes and other authorities set forth in the above-referenced TDCJ-CJAD's Community Supervision and Corrections Department Records manual . Medical and psychological information shall be maintained in a safe and secure manner with access to this confidential information restricted to only those persons who have been authorized to receive this information by law or with a duly executed release and waiver of confidentiality from the offender . The CSCD may disclose medical and psychological information relating to special needs offenders in accordance with Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 614 and the other statutes and authorities identified in the aforementioned TDCJ-CJAD manual . [ A department may be required to take additional measures to restrict access to information concerning the offender's HIV-AIDS status, depending on the extent to which an offender limits the access to specific personnel. ]

§163.42.Substantial Noncompliance.

(a) Definition. Substantial noncompliance with TDCJ-CJAD standards, for purposes of [ §509.012, ] Texas Government Code §509.012 , is defined as:

(1) intentional diversion , theft or misapplication of TDCJ-CJAD funding or grants for purposes other than the state funding award or allocation;

(2) violations of laws , regulations or official manuals specific to the operations of CSCDs;

(3) intentional refusal to implement TDCJ-CJAD approved Action Plans that are a result of audits, reviews, or inspections; [ or ]

(4) for purposes of qualifying for state aid by complying with the Open Meetings Act under §163.43(a)(1)(F) of this title (relating to Funding and Financial Management), failing to hold the meeting to finalize the CSCD budget as required by Texas Local Government Code §140.004[ , Local Government Code, ] in compliance with the Texas Open Meetings Act ; and [ . ]

(5) interference, obstruction, or hindrance with any efforts by the State Comptroller, County Auditor of the county that manages the CSCD's funds, CJAD, or Criminal Justice Policy Council, to examine or audit the records, transactions and performance of the subject CSCD or facilities.

(b) (No change.)

§163.43.Funding and Financial Management.

(a) Funding.

(1) Qualifying for TDCJ-CJAD formula and grant funding. CSCDs qualify for TDCJ-CJAD state aid by:

(A) - (D) (No change.)

(E) having appointed by the district judge(s) managing the CSCD as set forth in subsection (b) of this section; [ the district judge(s) designating ] a fiscal officer and [ to account for, disburse, and report on all CSCD funds; ]

(F) except for CSCDs that can legally be managed by no more than one judge, the district judges complying with the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, when meeting to finalize the CSCD budget as required by Texas [ §140.004, ] Local Government Code §140.004 .

(2) Other entities qualifying [ Qualifying ] for TDCJ-CJAD grant funding. In addition to CSCDs, counties, [ Counties ] municipalities, and nonprofit organizations [ whose judicial districts' CSCDs substantially comply with TDCJ-CJAD standards ] qualify for TDCJ-CJAD grant funding by:

(A) being in substantial compliance with TDCJ-CJAD grant conditions; [ standards ]

[(B) having a community justice council that serves the jurisdiction as required by law;]

(B) [ (C) ] having [ a TDCJ-CJAD approved community justice plan with related ] budgets related to the program proposal; [ and the grant proposal contained within the community justice plan ] and

(C) [ (D) ] the grant funding recipient designating a chief fiscal officer to account for, protect, disburse, and report on all TDCJ-CJAD grant funding , and to prescribe the accounting procedures related thereto .

(3) Allocating state aid. State aid will be made available to eligible funding recipients [ CSCDs ] in accordance with the applicable statutory requirements and items [ requirements as ] set forth in the Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding issued by TDCJ-CJAD .

(4) Awarding TDCJ-CJAD grant funding. CSCDs, counties, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations who are eligible to receive grant funding must meet requirements as set forth in the Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding and [ to ] be approved by the TDCJ-CJAD Director [ director ] to receive such funds. Grant funding will be made available in accordance with statutory requirements and items [ requirements ] as set forth in the Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding.

(b) Financial procedures.

(1) Requested information from CSCDs and other potentially eligible TDCJ-CJAD funding recipients. Each funding [ The director of a CSCD or other eligible TDCJ-CJAD funding ] recipient shall present data , documents, and information requested by the TDCJ-CJAD as necessary to determine the amount of state financial aid to which the funding [ CSCD or other eligible ] recipient is entitled. A funding [ CSCD or other ] recipient receiving TDCJ-CJAD funding shall submit such reports , records, and other documentation as required by the TDCJ-CJAD.

(2) Deposit of TDCJ-CJAD funding. In accordance with Texas Local Government Code § 140.003, each [ Each ] CSCD, county, or municipality shall deposit all TDCJ-CJAD funding received in a special fund of the county treasury or municipal treasury, as appropriate, to be used on behalf of the department and as the CSCD directs [ solely for the provision of services, programs, and facilities ]. Nonprofit organizations shall deposit all TDCJ-CJAD funding received in a separate fund, to be used solely for the provision of services, programs, and facilities approved by TDCJ-CJAD.

(3) Fee deposit. Community supervision fees [ collected by the court ] and payments by offenders [ program participants ] shall be deposited into the same special fund of the county treasury receiving state financial aid, to be used for community supervision and correction services.

(4) Restrictions on CSCD generated revenue. [ No ] CSCD generated revenue shall be used [ to ]: in accordance with statutory requirements and with the items set forth in the Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding (October 1, 1999), as amended from time to time.

[(A) provide physical facilities, utilities, and equipment for CSCDs unless approved by the district judge(s) in accordance with Government Code §76.009 and §76.010, and/or as provided for in the Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding; or]

[(B) support religious-oriented activities or services whose principle or primary effect is to advance a sectarian or doctrinal belief or practice. No offender can be required to participate in a religious-oriented activity or service arranged through the CSCD unless the offender signs a waiver to this effect.]

(5) Available records. The funding recipient [ CSCD ] and/or the [ designated chief ] fiscal officer accounting for, disbursing, and reporting on the TDCJ-CJAD funding shall make financial , transaction, contract, computer and other records available to [ the ] TDCJ-CJAD. Funding [ CSCDs and/or other TDCJ-CJAD funding ] recipients shall provide financial reports and other records to TDCJ-CJAD as set forth in the referenced Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding.

(6) Budgets. Funding [ TDCJ-CJAD funding ] recipients shall prepare and operate from a budget(s) developed and approved within the guidelines set forth in the referenced Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding , as amended from time to time .

(7) Funding recipient obligations. Funding [ All TDCJ-CJAD funding ] recipients shall comply with all funding provisions as set forth in the Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding and any special conditions associated with their respective funding awards.

(8) - (9) (No change.)

(c) (No change.)

(d) Facilities, utilities, and equipment.

(1) CSCDs. In accordance with Texas Government Code §76.008, the [ The ] county or counties served by a CSCD shall provide, at a minimum, the following facilities, equipment and utilities for the department [ , and equipment for a CSCD ].

(A) Minimum facilities for CSCDs. Each CSO [ community supervision officer ] shall be provided a private office. Each office shall have the necessary lighting, air conditioning, equipment, privacy, and environment to provide and promote the delivery of professional community corrections services.

(B) (No change.)

(C) Minimum equipment for CSCDs. Each CSO [ community supervision officer ] shall be furnished adequate furniture, telephone, and other equipment as necessary and consistent with efficient office operations. Adequate insurance, maintenance, and repair of the CSCD's equipment shall be maintained.

(D)- (E) (No change.)

(2) Inventory. Inventory and disposal of equipment, furniture, and/or vehicles purchased with program funds will follow the guidelines in the Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding (October 1, 1999) as amended from time to time. In addition: [ TDCJ-CJAD funding. ]

(A) All equipment, furniture, and vehicles purchased with program funds [ TDCJ-CJAD funding ] are to be inventoried with TDCJ-CJAD in accordance with procedures set forth in the referenced Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding.

(B) Any CSCD or other entity wanting to dispose of equipment, furniture, and/or vehicles purchased with program funds [ TDCJ-CJAD funding ] shall adhere to procedures set forth in the referenced Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding.

(e) Certification of facilities, utilities, and equipment for CSCDs. [ CSCDS. ] Certification of facilities, utilities, and equipment for CSCDs shall be in accordance with Texas Government Code §76.009 and §76.010 , and as provided for in the referenced Financial Management Manual for TDCJ-CJAD Funding , as amended from time to time .

§163.46.Allocation Formula for Community Corrections Program

(a) Purpose. The Texas Government Code §509.011(f), gives the Texas Board of Criminal Justice (TBCJ) discretion to adopt a policy limiting the percentage of benefit or loss that may be realized by a CSCD [ community supervision and corrections department (CSCD) ] as a result of the Community Corrections Program allocation formula.

(b) (No change.)

§163.47.Contested Matters.

(a) Right to contest adverse proposals.

(1) If TDCJ-CJAD (hereinafter referred to as the division) proposes to deny, revoke, or suspend the certification of a CSO [ a supervision officer's certification ] or to reprimand such [ a supervision officer, the ] officer shall be entitled to notice and a hearing before the division or a hearings examiner appointed by the division. Hearings before a hearings examiner shall be conducted pursuant to the procedures set forth in paragraph (h) below.

(2) (No change.)

(b) Notice of proposed action.

(1) The division shall issue a written notice that:

(A) defines specifically [ with specificity ] the alleged conduct that constitutes substantial noncompliance with division standards or requirements;

(B) - (E) (No change.)

(2) The notice must be signed by the TDCJ-CJAD director [ division director ] and sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested and postage prepaid . If the proposed action is against a CSO [ supervision officer ], then the notice must be sent to the individual with a copy forwarded to the director of the department.

(c) Request for further hearing before the judicial advisory council. A department or CSO [ supervision officer ] who received written notice of the division's proposed adverse action may after the conclusion and results of the hearing before the Division or Hearings Examiner provided under subsection (a) of this section, request a further hearing to contest the matter before the Judicial Advisory Council (JAC) [ to the division ].

(1) Within 15 working days (for purposes of this section, the term days refers to business days other than weekends or holidays [ working days ]) of the receipt of the written notice of the results of the hearing before the Division or Hearings Examiner [ proposed adverse action ], the respondent CSO [ affected officer ] or department must submit in writing a request for a further hearing before the JAC to the division director and the chairperson of the JAC.

(2) The request for further hearing before the JAC must include a succinct statement of the grounds upon which the proposed action is contested and all grounds upon which the effected individual or department refutes the basis of the proposed action and any results from the initial hearing before the Division or Hearings Examiner .

(3) The JAC shall offer the affected CSO [ officer ] or department an opportunity to be heard at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the JAC held immediately after receipt of the request for hearing. If no meeting is scheduled within 60 days of the receipt of the request for further hearing before the JAC , then the chairperson shall schedule a specially-called meeting to be held no later than sixty days from the receipt of the applicable request for further hearing before the JAC .

(4) The chairperson shall cause a written notice to be issued to the affected CSO [ officer ] or department informing the party of:

(A) - (C) (No change.)

(d) The division and the affected party shall each be given 30 minutes to present their respective sides. Testimony may be given orally under oath or through [ as ] a prepared written statement or affidavit as acknowledged before a notary public . No more than three witnesses per side shall testify. However, upon the request of either party made prior to the hearing and at the discretion of the chairperson, the time for making a presentation and the number of witnesses needed to testify may be increased.

(e) At the conclusion of the hearing before the JAC , the members of the JAC shall vote whether to recommend that the division's proposed adverse action [ proposal of the division ] be withdrawn, modified, or affirmed. Within 10 days of the recommended vote of the JAC, the TDCJ-CJAD director [ division director ] shall notify the officer, department director, and/or administrative judge concerning whether or not the director concurs with the recommendation of the JAC. Notice shall be made in writing and sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested in accordance with subsection (b)(2) of this section.

(f) (No change.)

(g) Request for hearing before the Texas Board of Criminal Justice. Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection and subsection (f) of this section a department or supervision officer may contest a final proposed action of the division director before the Texas Board of Criminal Justice.

(1) - (2) (No change.)

(3) Within 20 days of receipt of the request for hearing, the general counsel of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice or his designee shall file with the State Office of Administrative Hearings a request for assignment of administrative law judge. Said request shall be accompanied with a complaint containing the same information as required under subsection (b)(1)(A)-(E) of this section and also including a statement of the recommendation of the JAC and the division director's final proposed action. Said request shall also be accompanied with a written statement of applicable rules or policies of the division and agency. The complaint shall designate the parties in this contested matter. The affected officer or department who is appealing the proposed adverse action of the TDCJ-CJAD director [ division's director ] shall be designated as the petitioner. The division shall be designated as the respondent. Said request and complaint shall be sent to the officer, department director and/or administrative judge by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested and postage prepaid .

(4) Division representative. The general counsel of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice or [ his ] his/her designee shall represent the division. The general counsel has authority over the manner and substance of the presentation of the division's case.

(5) -(6) (No change.)

(h) Administrative hearing procedures.

(1) - (3) (No change.)

(4) Discovery and depositions.

(A) Discovery shall be provided and governed by Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001, Subchapter D, (the Administrative Procedure Act), and where no conflict exists with said Act, with the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.

(B) Depositions shall be taken in accordance with the requirements of Texas Government Code, Chapter 2001, Subchapter D, (the administrative Procedure Act), and where no conflict exists with said Act, with the Texas rules of Civil Procedure.

(C) On its own motion or on the written request of a party, and on deposit of an amount that will reasonably ensure payment of the amount estimated to accrue under Texas Government Code, §2001.103, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice shall issue a commission, addressed to the officers authorized by statute to take a deposition, requiring that the deposition of a witness be taken. The commission shall also authorize the issuance of any subpoena necessary to require that the witness appear and produce, at the time the deposition is taken, books, records, papers, or other objects that may be necessary and proper for the purpose of the hearing.

(5) Rules of evidence.

(A) - (D) (No change.)

(E) On its own motion or on the written request of a party, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice shall issue a subpoena addressed to the sheriff or to a constable to require the attendance of a witness or the production of books, records, papers, or other objects that may be necessary and proper for the purposes of a proceeding if:

(i) (No change.)

(ii) an amount is deposited that will reasonably ensure payment of the amounts estimated to accrue under Texas Government Code, § 2001.103.

(F) - (I) (No change.)

(6) - (8) (No change.)

(i) - (k) (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 February 25, 2002.

TRD-200201154

Carl Reynolds

General Counsel

Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Earliest possible date of adoption: April 7, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 463-0422