TITLE 37.PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS

Part 1. TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Chapter 5. CRIMINAL LAW ENFORCEMENT

Subchapter A. INVESTIGATION

37 TAC §5.2

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) proposes new §5.2, concerning the Memorandum of Understanding with Criminal Justice Division of the Office of the Governor. The purpose of the proposed rule is the adoption of a Joint Memorandum of Understanding and all necessary revisions, between the DPS and the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division (CJD), establishing the coordination of drug law enforcement efforts.

The Memorandum outlines the responsibilities of the department and CJD with regard to the State Drug Law Enforcement Strategy and Byrne-funded narcotics task forces.

Tom Haas, Chief of Finance, has determined that for each year of the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government, or local economies.

Mr. Haas also has determined that for each year of the first five-year period the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be statewide coordination/uniformity of drug programs. There is no anticipated adverse economic effect on individuals, small businesses, or micro-businesses.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Bobby Duvall, Deputy Commander, Texas Department of Public Safety, Criminal Law Enforcement Division, P.O. Box 4087, Austin, Texas 78773-0001, (512) 424-2150; or by fax at (512) 424-7166. All comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. on the 21st day after publication of the proposed new section in the Texas Register and should make reference to "Proposed Rule for Memorandum of Understanding with Criminal Justice Division of the Office of the Governor" in the subject line or in the beginning of the text.

The new section is proposed pursuant to Texas Government Code, §411.004(3), which authorizes the Public Safety Commission to adopt rules considered necessary for carrying out the department's work and Texas Government Code, §411.0096.

Texas Government Code, §411.004(3) and §411.0096 are affected by this proposal.

§5.2.Memorandum of Understanding with Criminal Justice Division of the Office of the Governor.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division (CJD), has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) pertaining to the coordination of drug law enforcement efforts. This MOU may be amended, as necessary, by subsequent written agreement adopted by rule. The current MOU is listed in the following:

Figure: 37 TAC §5.2

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 4, 2002.

TRD-200200672

Thomas A. Davis, Jr.

Director

Texas Department of Public Safety

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 424-2135


Chapter 15. DRIVERS LICENSE RULES

Subchapter B. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS -- ORIGINAL, RENEWAL, DUPLICATE, IDENTIFICATION CERTIFICATES

37 TAC §15.24

The Texas Department of Public Safety proposes amendments to §15.24, relating to Identification of Applicants. This rule has been amended twice in the last three years. In April of 1999 the department amended the rule in response to recommendations by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) to standardize identification requirements throughout member jurisdictions. This rule was again amended in August of 2000 to address issues that arose during the implementation process. Current national events have caused the department to again review our rules and policies on the types of documents acceptable for the identification of an applicant for a Texas driver license or identification certificate. The driver license has evolved into the primary form of identification. For a majority of Texas residents this document is their only form of photo identification. As such, the department must take all reasonable steps to insure the accuracy of the information contained in the document.

The amendments to this section are as follows:

Changes in terminology include renaming Standalone Identification to Primary Identification and Documented Identification to Secondary Identification.

All documents acceptable for identification must be verifiable to their source. The current rule applied this requirement to items listed in the secondary identification section. The department maintains that the all items used for identification must be verifiable to assure the accurate identity of the applicant.

The documents listed under primary identification must contain the applicant's full name and date of birth. Under the current rule the department experienced instances where a primary document did not provide an applicant's full name and date of birth and as such did not provide sufficient information for accurately identifying the applicant.

The Department limits the use of a Texas driver license or identification certificate to two years following the expiration date. This insures that the individual's records are retrievable and as such makes these items a verifiable document. The Department will no longer accept expired United States passports or expired United States Immigration and Naturalization Service documents. This will insure a current photograph of the applicant for positive identification purposes.

The Department is deleting the exceptions to the Immigration and Naturalization Service documents. The Department has been advised by the Immigration and Naturalization Service that the I- 94 should not be relied upon for an identity document. They are often filled out incorrectly, incompletely and are easily altered. In corresponding to the department's determination to accept only unexpired documents, the department will no longer accept passports issued by a foreign country with an I-20 student certification that has expired.

Out of state driver licenses and identification certificates were moved from primary identification to secondary identification. Due to the variances in the types of identification documents accepted by other licensing jurisdictions, the department has determined that additional documentation is necessary to verify the identity of the applicant.

Due to the department's position that identification documents must be verifiable, several documents listed in the supporting identification section were deleted.

The department proposes that the applicant may provide two secondary documents to establish identity. This supplements the two current methods for establishing an applicant's identity.

Tom Haas, Chief of Finance, has determined that for each year of the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government, or local economies.

Mr. Haas also has determined that for each year of the first five-year period the rule is in effect the public benefit anticipated as a result of enforcing the rule will be to assist in the positive identification of an applicant for a Texas driver license or identification certificate. There is no anticipated economic cost to small businesses, large businesses or micro- businesses. The cost to individuals who are required to comply with the section as proposed will be the cost of obtaining a Texas driver license, commercial driver license, or an identification certificate.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to Frank Elder, Assistant Chief, Driver License Division, Texas Department of Public Safety, P.O. Box 4087, Austin, Texas 78773-0300, (512) 424-2768.

The amendment is proposed pursuant to Texas Government Code, §411.004(3), which authorizes the Public Safety Commission to adopt rules, considered necessary for carrying out the department's work, and Texas Transportation Code, §521.005.

Texas Government Code, §411.004(3) and Texas Transportation Code, §521.005 are affected by this proposal.

§15.24Identification of Applicants.

All original applicants for a driver [ driver's ] license or identification certificate [ certificates ] must present proof of identity satisfactory to the department. All documents must be verifiable. There are three categories of documents that may be presented to establish [ that acceptable ] proof of identity.

(1) Primary [ Standalone ] identification. These items are complete within themselves and require no supporting instruments: These documents must contain the applicant's complete name and full date of birth:

(A) [ valid or expired ]Texas driver [ driver's ] license (DL) or identification certificate (ID) with photo within two years of expiration date ;

(B) unexpired United States passport;

(C) United States citizenship (naturalization) certificate with identifiable photo;

(D) unexpired United States Immigration and Naturalization Service document with verified data and identifiable photo ; or, [ . Exceptions to this are: ]

[(i) Record of Arrival and Departure stamped "Refugee" (I-94) no photo required, or]

[(ii) Passports issued by a foreign country with an I-20 student certification with a valid or expired visa;]

(E) [ valid photo DL or photo ID issued by another (United States) state, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, or Canadian province; or, ]

[ (F) ] unexpired United States military ID card for active duty, reserve or retired personnel with identifiable photo.

(2) Secondary [ Documented ] identification. These items are recorded governmental documents (United States, 1 of the 50 states, a United States territory, District of Columbia or Canadian province)[ whose authenticity can be verified (traceable to an original source for confirmation or refutation) ]:

(A) original or certified copy of a birth certificate issued by the appropriate State or Canadian province Bureau of Vital Statistics or equivalent agency;

(B) original or certified copy of United States Department of State Certification of Birth (issued to United States citizens born abroad); or

(C) unexpired photo DL or photo ID issued by another (United States) state, US territory, the District of Columbia, or Canadian province;

(D) original or certified copy of court order with name and date of birth (DOB) ; or, [ . ]

(E) [ (D) ] For applicants born before 1961, the following items would be acceptable in this category:

(i) original or certified copy of Form DD-214;

(ii) original or certified copy of other state or federal governmental record that states name and DOB (such as United States census records or Social Security records).

(3) Supporting identification. These items consist of other records or documents that aid examining personnel in establishing the identity of the applicant. The following items are not all inclusive. The examining or supervisory personnel may determine that an unlisted document meets the department's needs in establishing identity. [ listed as examples only and should not be construed as an absolute list of "must have" items: ]

(A) [ public ]school records;

(B) [ infant baptismal records; ]

[ (C) ] insurance policy (at least two years old);

(C) [ (D) ] vehicle title;

[(E) home mortgage records;]

[(F) marriage license;]

[(G) two years of utility bills;]

[(H) children's birth certificates;]

[(I) library card;]

(D) [ (J) ] military records;

(E) unexpired military dependant identification card;

[(K) award or certificate from educational institution;]

(F) [ (L) ] original or certified copy of marriage license or divorce decree;

(G) [ (M) ] voter registration card;

(H) [ (N) ] Social Security card;

(I) [ (O) ] pilot's license;

(J) [ (P) ] concealed handgun license;

(K) [ (Q) ] Texas driver's license temporary receipt;

(L) expired DL or ID issued by another state, territory, District of Columbia or Canadian province that is within two years of the expiration date.

(M) [ (R) ] a foreign passport (with or without a United States Visa); or

(N) [ (S) ] a consular document issued by a state or national government.

(4) Every original applicant must present:

(A) one piece of primary [ standalone ] identification, or

(B) one piece of secondary [ documented ] identification plus two [ one or more ] pieces of support identification ; or, [ . ]

(C) two pieces of secondary identification.

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 4, 2002.

TRD-200200670

Thomas A. Davis, Jr.

Director

Texas Department of Public Safety

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 424-2135


Chapter 23. VEHICLE INSPECTION

Subchapter G. VEHICLE EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

37 TAC §23.96

The Texas Department of Public Safety proposes new §23.96, concerning the Emissions Analyzer Access/Identification card. The section establishes the department's procedures for issuance and use of this card including the department's security policy relating to the card. The emissions analyzer access/identification card (access/ID card) is required by changes in the software specifications of vehicle emissions analyzers used after May 1, 2002 in all counties performing vehicle emissions testing as a part of the annual vehicle safety inspection, except El Paso County. The new specification requires that access to the vehicle emissions analyzers at certified inspection stations be controlled using an access/ID card. The access/ID card features a bar-coded access code combined with a unique personal identification number (PIN) for each individual vehicle inspector. The access/ID card will also display a photograph of the inspector.

Tom Haas, Chief of Finance, has determined that for each year of the first five-year period the rule is in effect there will be no fiscal implications for state or local government, or local economies.

Mr. Haas also has determined that for each year of the first five-year period the rule is in effect the anticipated public benefit resulting from adoption of the section is twofold. First, the public will be assured through the use of the photograph access/ID card that the person performing the annual safety inspection is the inspector whom the department certified. Second, use of the access/ID card and unique PIN will enhance the validity of vehicle emissions testing records. There is no anticipated adverse economic effect on individuals, small businesses, or micro-businesses. There is no anticipated cost to individuals.

Comments on the proposal may be submitted to E. Eugene Summerford, Legal Counsel, Vehicle Inspections and Emissions, Texas Department of Public Safety, Box 4087, Austin, Texas 78773- 0543; or by fax at (512) 424-2774. All comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. on the 21st day after publication in the Texas Register and should refer to "Proposed Rule 37 TAC §23.96" in the subject line or at the beginning of the text.

The new section is proposed pursuant to Texas Government Code, §411.004(3), which authorizes the Public Safety Commission to adopt rules considered necessary for carrying out the department's work; Texas Transportation Code, §548.302, which authorizes the commission to develop and impose requirements to ensure inspection certificates are not issued to a vehicle subject to the motor vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program unless the vehicle has passed a motor vehicle emissions inspection; §548.303, which authorizes the commission to administer the Motor Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program; §548.002, which authorizes the Department of Public Safety to adopt rules and enforce the compulsory inspection of vehicles; and §548.401, which allows the issuance of inspection certificates only if certified under rules adopted by the department.

Texas Government Code, §411.004(3) and Texas Transportation Code, §§548.002, 548.302, 548.303, and 548.401 are affected by this proposal.

§23.96.Emissions Analyzer Access/Identification Card.

(a) General. After May 1, 2002, access to the vehicle emissions analyzers at certified inspection stations in all counties, except El Paso County, shall be controlled using an access/identification card.

(b) Access/Identification Card (Access/ID card).

(1) The department will issue an Access/ID card to each certified inspector who performs emissions testing. The Access/ID card will be in a format prescribed by the department that identifies the individual as a department-certified inspector. At a minimum, it will contain the following additional information:

(A) photograph of the inspector;

(B) inspector's name, first and last;

(C) inspector identification number; and

(D) bar coded information used to authenticate inspection records with the Texas Information Management System (TIMS).

(2) At the time of issue, the Access/ID card is enrolled into the Texas Information Management System (TIMS) by a department technician. The Access/ID card will not be activated until this enrollment in the TIMS is complete.

(3) The Access/ID card is the inspector's official identification. Inspectors must carry the Access/ID card on their person at all times while performing inspection duties; and it must be presented to any department official upon request.

(4) Access/identification cards are nontransferable, nor may they be duplicated. The inspector is responsible for all transactions made between the vehicle analyzer and the Texas Information Management System made using their Access/ID card.

(5) The inspector is responsible for upkeep of the card. Loss of an Access/ID card shall immediately be reported to the proper department representative. The replacement fee for a lost, defaced, stolen, or discarded Access/ID card is $10.00.

(6) All Access/ID cards are the property of the department and must be returned upon request.

(7) Any lost or stolen Access/ID card recovered, which cannot be immediately returned to the proper cardholder, will be returned to the department. Returned Access/ID cards may be claimed by the inspector after showing proof of identity.

(8) The data records maintained in the Texas Information Management System are government records. Fraudulent use of the Access/ID card or the entering of false information using the Access/ID card will subject the user to criminal action under either Penal Code §37.10, Transportation Code §548.601, or both as well as administrative action by the department.

(c) Use of Access/Identification Card (Access/ID card).

(1) Before an official emissions inspection may begin, the inspector must enter two codes that uniquely identify the vehicle inspection record with the inspector.

(2) The vehicle emissions analyzer first requires the entry of the inspector's access. The entry of the access code is via the 2-D bar code reader, which reads the access code from an access/identification card. The inspector is required to enter his access code using the analyzer bar code reader for every inspection. The vehicle analyzer automatically verifies the inspector's access code, certification expiration date, and the presence of an inspector or station lockout.

(3) After the inspector's access code is validated, the inspector will then be required to enter a unique personal identification number (PIN) known only to the inspector. This PIN is encrypted on the analyzer and is unreadable to anyone and is neither displayed nor printed in any way. Inspectors may not give, share, lend, or divulge this PIN to another person without the explicit consent of appropriate department personnel. Failure to comply with this paragraph shall result in suspension or revocation of the inspector's certification as well as any appropriate criminal action or administrative disciplinary action. Inspectors are responsible for unauthorized access of the Texas Information Management System resulting from their negligence or carelessness in maintaining the confidentiality of their Personal Identification Number (PIN).

(d) Inspector's signed statement acknowledging the department's policy for the use and protection of emissions analyzer access/identification card. Each inspector shall, as a condition of issue of the Access/ID card, complete and sign, on a locally produced form, the following statement:

Figure: 37 TAC §23.96(d)

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 4, 2002.

TRD-200200671

Thomas A. Davis, Jr.

Director

Texas Department of Public Safety

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

For further information, please call: (512) 424-2135


Part 3. TEXAS YOUTH COMMISSION

Chapter 81. INTERACTION WITH THE PUBLIC

37 TAC §81.11

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §81.11 concerning Complaints from the Public. The amendment to the section will make the rule specific to complaints received from the public. The purpose now indicates that the public is entitled to receive timely responses and resolutions to their complaints. All other reference to complaints by employees or youth has been deleted from the rule. Other amendments made were to position titles.

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

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

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

The amendment is proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.0422, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the obligation to provide a system regarding complaints of services.

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

§81.11. Complaints from the Public.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish a process through which Texas Youth Commission (TYC) [ TYC ] will resolve complaints relative to the operation of and services provided by TYC including those involving the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) (Public Law 101-336). Members of the public who wish to file a complaint, including one that alleges a violation of the ADA, may do so under the rules established by this policy. Members of the public are entitled to and shall receive a timely and responsive resolution of a complaint.

[(b) Applicability.]

[(1) Complaints by TYC employees, including those which involve the ADA, are processed under the provisions of TYC personnel policy and procedure PRS.35.03, Employee Grievance Chapter.]

[(2) Complaints from Youth, under TYC jurisdiction, including those alleging a violation of the ADA, are processed under (GAP)§93.31 of this title (relating to Youth Complaint Resolution System).]

[(c) Members of the public, employees and youth are entitled to and shall receive a timely and responsive resolution of a complaint.]

(b) [ (d) ] Public Complaint that does not involve an ADA Violation.

(1) How to File a Public Complaint that does not Involve an ADA Violation.

(A) Complaints must be filed in writing. In order to be timely filed, a complaint must be filed within 180 calendar days after the complainant became aware of, or should have become aware of, the circumstances the complainant believes constitutes a basis for complaint. Failure to timely file can result in the commission refusing to consider the complaint.

(B) No particular format is prescribed for a complaint. However, concise and accurate information can be of immeasurable assistance in resolving the complaint. At a minimum the complaint should contain the following information:

(i) Name, address and telephone number of the person(s) [ person ] filing the complaint.

(ii) The nature of the complaint and a brief description of the circumstances surrounding the complaint to include location, names, and dates.

(2) Where to File a Public [ an ] Non-ADA Complaint. The complaint may be filed with the administrator of a TYC field program or with the complaint coordinator [ administrative assistant to the executive director ] in TYC's central office at 4900 North Lamar, P.O. 4260, Austin, Texas 78765. [ P.O.Box 4260, 4900 North Lamar, Austin, Texas 78756. ]

(3) Non-ADA Public Complaint Processing Procedures. A record of each complaint shall be maintained by the complaint coordinator. [ administrative assistant to the executive. ]

(A) The complaint coordinator [ administrator assistant ] shall be notified of all complaints received and assigns each complaint to the most appropriate administrator for response. Resolution of complaint is attempted at the program level.

(B) The administrator assigned resolution of a complaint:

(i) attempts to resolve the complaint in a timely and effective manner;

(ii) reports the status of resolution to the complainant at least monthly [ quarterly ] until and including final disposition;

(iii) sends copies of communications with the complainant to the complaint coordinator. [ administrative assistant to the executive director. ]

(c) [ (e) ] Public Complaint that involves an ADA Violation.

(1) ADA Compliance Officer. TYC [ The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) ] complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) (Public Law 101-336). The executive director has appointed the central office Director of Risk Management, 4900 North Lamar, P.O. Box 4260 Austin, Texas 78765, [ Art Hinojosa, or his successor, Architect, P.O. Box 4260, 4900 North Lamar, Austin, Texas 78756, ] as the ADA compliance officer for TYC.

(2) How to File a Public [ an ] ADA Complaint. Complaints may be filed either in writing or verbally. If the complaint is initially filed verbally, it must subsequently be reduced to writing and received by the ADA compliance officer not later than 15 calendar days after the ADA compliance officer was notified of the initial verbal filing. The complaint, in order to be timely filed, must be filed within 180 calendar days after the complainant became aware of, or should have become aware of, the alleged violation. Failure to timely file can result in the commission refusing to consider the complaint.

(3) Public ADA Complaint Format. No particular format is prescribed for a complaint. However, concise and accurate information can be of immeasurable assistance in resolving the complaint. At a minimum the complaint should contain the following information:

(A) Name, address and telephone number of the person(s) [ person ] filing the complaint.

(B) The nature of the complaint. A brief description of the circumstances surrounding the alleged violation to include location, names, and dates.

(4) Where to File a Public [ an ] ADA Complaint. The complaint may be filed directly, either verbally or in writing, with the ADA compliance officer at the address in paragraph (1) of this subsection, or the complaint may be filed in writing with the superintendent of any TYC facility, or the director of any TYC area office. That administrator will then immediately notify the ADA compliance officer and forward the written complaint to the ADA compliance officer within one working day from date of receipt of the complaint.

(5) Public ADA Complaint Processing Procedures.

(A) ADA Compliance Officer and Employee Grievance Administrator Responsibilities. Within five calendar days after the ADA compliance officer receives the written complaint the ADA compliance officer and the employee grievance administrator will jointly identify the appropriate decision authority and establish a date the complainant is due receipt of the decision. As soon as possible after identification of the decision authority, the ADA compliance officer will notify the complainant of receipt of the complaint, the name of the TYC administrator appointed to resolve the complaint (decision authority), and the date a decision is due the complainant.

(B) Decision Authority's Responsibilities.

(i) Assignment. Immediately upon receipt of the complaint the decision authority reviews it to ensure that he/she has the authority to act. If the decision authority does not have the authority to act, he/she will forward the complaint to the next level administrator who has the authority to act on the complaint. If the complaint is forwarded, the initial decision authority will immediately notify the ADA compliance officer and the employee grievance administrator of the transfer.

(ii) Time Lines. The decision authority has 25 calendar days from date of receipt of the complaint to conduct an investigation, resolve the complaint, prepare a written decision, obtain a legal review of the decision, and notify the complainant in writing of the decision. If for good cause the decision authority requires additional time for investigation and resolution of the complaint, he/she will notify the ADA compliance officer, employee grievance administrator and the complainant of the reasons for the delay and provide a new estimated decision date.

(iii) Investigation. The decision authority conducts the investigation or he/she may appoint an employee to conduct the investigation and provide the decision authority with non-binding recommendations. Prior to commencing the investigation, the person who will actually conduct the investigation (investigator) will review the complaint with the central office legal department and he/she will continue to periodically advise the legal department and the ADA compliance officer of the progress of the investigation. The investigator will permit the complainant and/or complainant's representative, and the investigator may, in his/her sole discretion, permit any other persons the investigator determines to have relevant information, to present matters on the complaint. There is no burden of proof on either the commission or the complainant. There are no rules of evidence applicable to the investigation. The decision authority is the sole judge of relevance, credibility of witnesses and the weight to be afforded testimony and other relevant evidence. However, information determined by the decision authority to be factual should be supported by a preponderance of the evidence.

(iv) Report of Investigation. Upon completion of the investigation the decision authority will provide the complainant with a written decision on the complaint. If the decision is adverse to the complainant, the decision authority will include his/her reasons for the adverse decision. Prior to release of the written decision to the complainant, or any other person or entity, the decision authority will submit the proposed decision to the central office legal department for review. The legal department shall have five (5) working days from receipt to review the proposed decision for legal sufficiency. If the legal department finds the decision to be for any reason legally insufficient, the decision will not be released to any one until such time as the deficiency has been corrected and the proposed decision has been found to be legally sufficient.

(v) Decision Distribution. After legal department approval, the decision authority will provide a copy of the decision to the complainant, the complainant's representative, if any, the ADA compliance officer, the employee grievance administrator, and the director of the legal department.

(6) Request for Review of Public ADA Complaint Decision.

(A) If the complainant is dissatisfied with the decision, he/she may, within ten calendar days of the date of receipt of the decision, submit the written decision, and a written statement specifically outlining the reasons for disagreement, addressed to the executive director, Texas Youth Commission, at the address provided in paragraph (1) of this subsection, for review.

(B) Upon receipt of the request for review, the executive director has 20 calendar days from date of receipt of the request for review to consider, resolve the issue and notify the complainant in writing. Prior to releasing his/her decision, the executive director should, if the proposed decision is adverse to the complainant, submit the complaint record to the central office legal department for review and advise. If the executive director's decision is adverse to the complainant, the written notification need only state that the issue has been considered and that no valid reason has been found to warrant reversing the decision.

(C) Distribution of the decision will be as established in paragraph (e)(5)(B)(v) of this subsection.

(D) The decision by the executive director finalizes the complaint process within TYC and exhausts the complainant's administrative remedies.

(7) Public ADA Complaint Record Repository. The ADA compliance officer is responsible for maintaining the files and records of all ADA complaints relative to TYC. Upon completion of processing the complaint, including any appeal, the original decision authority is responsible for ensuring that the original complaint, all correspondence, and any other relevant materials will be forwarded to the ADA compliance officer for filing.

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 4, 2002.

TRD-200200667

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

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


Chapter 91. PROGRAM SERVICES

Subchapter D. HEALTH CARE SERVICES

37 TAC §91.99

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §91.99, concerning Medical Admissions for Jefferson County State School. The amendment to the section changes the name from Jefferson County State School to the Al Price State Juvenile Correctional Facility as well as gives a name to the specific location where special medical services will be given. The location is now referred to as the Medical Recovery Dorm throughout the rule.

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

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

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

The amendment is proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.076, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to provide any medical treatment that is necessary.

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

§91.99Medical Admissions for Al Price State Juvenile Correctional Facility [ Jefferson County State School ]

(a) Purpose. The purpose of this rule is to establish the criteria and procedure for medical admission of youth to the Al Price State Juvenile Correctional Facility (APSJCF) Medical Recovery Dorm (MRD) [ Jefferson County State School Adolescent Recovery/Rehabilitation Center (JARRC) ] for the more efficient delivery of health care.

(b) Applicability.

(1) See (GAP) §91.81 of this title (relating to Medical Consent).

(2) See (GAP) §91.83 of this title (relating to Criteria for Health Care).

(3) See (GAP) §91.85 of this title (relating to Medical Care).

(4) See (GAP) §85.29 of this title (relating to Program Completion and Movement of Other Than Sentenced Offenders).

(5) See (GAP) §87.1 of this title (relating to Case Planning).

(c) Admissions.

(1) Admission Criteria. Youth from a residential setting or Marlin Orientation and Assessment Unit (MOAU) may be admitted for medical reasons to the MRD [ JARRC ] according to the following criteria:

(A) Youth with a chronic condition who need more frequent health counseling to manage their disease upon release, youth whose chronic condition is uncontrolled, or youth whose condition requires frequent medical monitoring. Examples of conditions are uncontrolled diabetes, hepatitis B or C, sickle cell disease or multiple sclerosis.

(B) Youth with acute conditions that require more frequent care. Examples of conditions are severe fractures or post-operative care. These youth would be considered to be in need of transitional care.

(C) Youth requiring frequent trips to University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) for any reason. Examples include extensive diagnostic testing or chemotherapy.

(2) Admission Process.

(A) Referrals. Youth may be placed at the MRD [ JARRC ] from the MOAU or may be referred from another facility. If referred from another facility, the action is considered an administrative transfer under (GAP) §85.29 of this title (relating to Program Completion and Movement Other Than Sentenced Offenders). Youth may contest such a transfer by filing a complaint under (GAP) §93.31 of this title (relating to Complaints Resolution System).

(i) A referral packet is completed and forwarded under the superintendent's signature to the MRD [ JARRC ] admissions review team at APSJCF. [ Jefferson County State School (JCSS). ]

(ii) The admission review team consists of a program administrator, director of nurses, primary service worker (PSW) and a psychologist.

(B) Emergency Referrals. If an emergency exists, staff may request of the APSJCF [ JCSS ] superintendent immediate placement in the MRD. [ JARRC. ] The admission is subject to review and approval by the admission review team, which occurs within seven days of the youth's arrival.

(d) Program Requirements.

(1) The MRD [ JARRC ] program focus will be on the coordination and provision of health care services.

(2) Health care services will be provided in the MRD [ JARCC ] and the APSJCF [ JCSS ] infirmary, whichever is most appropriate.

(3) Individualized treatment program (Individual Case Plan or ICP) reflecting treatment goals shall be developed for and with each youth. Refer to (GAP) §87.1 of this title (relating to Case Planning).

(4) Individual Medical Plan (IMP) reflecting medical treatment goals and objectives will be developed and implemented with each youth.

(5) The treatment team shall review the youth's progress on the ICP and IMP objectives at least every 30 days. The treatment team consists of the program administrator or designee, the director of nurses or designee, PSW, juvenile correctional officers (JCO) and designated education staff.

(e) Release and Transition Options.

(1) The admission review team of the MRD [ JARCC ] may recommend to the APSJCF [ JCSS ] superintendent the transition of a youth from the MRD. [ JARRC. ] The facility's physician will be consulted when questions arise regarding the transition. The TYC medical director may be consulted before making final decisions regarding the transition of youth from the MRD. [ JARRC. ]

(2) Release/transition options are consistent with the youth's residential placement at referral. Youth will be referred to the Centralized Placement Unit (CPU) for appropriate placement. Transition to the main campus at the APSJCF [ JCSS ] will occur only upon recommendation of the admission review team.

(3) When a youth is to be released or transferred, a medical plan (Discharge Summary) is completed to communicate pertinent medical information and required follow-up care. This plan is included as a part of the ICP for release.

(4) If a youth has been assigned to the MRD [ JARRC ] as a transitional care youth, he would be returned to his original assigned facility.

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 4, 2002.

TRD-200200665

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

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


Chapter 93. YOUTH RIGHTS AND REMEDIES

37 TAC §93.53

The Texas Youth Commission (TYC) proposes an amendment to §93.53, concerning Appeal to Executive Director. The amendment to the section will allow a direct appeal to the executive director as a result of a second and subsequent, rather than third and subsequent level IV hearing.

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

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

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

The amendment is proposed under the Human Resources Code, §61.045, which provides the Texas Youth Commission with the authority to be responsible for the operation of its programs and facilities.

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

§93.53. Appeal to Executive Director.

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

(b) An appeal to the executive director may be filed after all preliminary levels of appeal have been exhausted, concerning any TYC or contract program employee decision regarding a complaint.

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

(1) parole revocation;

(2) reclassification;

(3) classification;

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

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

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

(7) a disapproved home evaluation;

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

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

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

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

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

(d) All appeals to the executive director must be filed within six (6) months of the decision being appealed. Appeals filed after that time may be considered, at the discretion of the executive director.

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

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

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

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on February 4, 2002.

TRD-200200666

Steve Robinson

Executive Director

Texas Youth Commission

Earliest possible date of adoption: March 17, 2002

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