Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 291 - DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
Overview
OAR Chapter 291 contains the administrative rules governing the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC). These rules implement statutory mandates, establish operational procedures, and regulate the treatment of adults in custody (AICs), supervised individuals, staff, and interactions with the public.
The chapter is divided into multiple divisions, each covering a specific area of DOC operations.
Structure and Key Divisions
Division 1 – Procedural Rules
Covers general administrative procedures and rulemaking processes within the DOC.
Division 5 – Network Information System Access and Security
Regulates access to DOC information systems and security protocols.
Division 6 – Discrimination Complaint Review System
Procedures for addressing discrimination complaints within DOC.
Division 9 – Tours
Rules for tours of DOC facilities.
Division 11 – Segregation (Disciplinary)
Standards for disciplinary segregation, including when and how it may be applied.
Division 13 – Use of Force
Policies and procedures regarding the use of force by DOC staff.
Division 14 – Arrest and Transport
Guidelines for arresting and transporting individuals within the correctional system.
Division 15 – Volunteer Services and Student Interns
Rules for participation of volunteers and interns in DOC programs.
Division 19 – Transfer (Community Corrections)
Rules governing transfers within community corrections programs.
Division 24 – Capital Punishment
Procedures for implementation of death by lethal injection.
Division 27 – Death (Inmate)
Protocols relating to the death of an adult in custody.
Division 31 – Community Corrections Programs
Rules for programming and supervision in community corrections.
Division 37 – Release of Public Records
Policies for handling public records requests to DOC.
Division 58 – Structured, Intermediate Sanctions
Defines administrative sanctions for supervision violations and procedures for their application.
Division 70 – Records Management (AIC and Offender)
Standards for management of records related to adults in custody and offenders under supervision.
Division 76 – Suicide Prevention
Rules for suicide prevention and related protocols in DOC facilities.
Other Divisions
Additional divisions address library services, mail handling, visitation, group activities, health services, and grievance systems.
Examples of Rule Topics
Accessibility – Ensures adults in custody with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations and access to programs.
Mail Handling – Regulations for sending, receiving, and inspecting mail, including content and weight restrictions.
Library Services – Policies governing access to library materials and borrowing procedures.
Grievance System – Procedures for filing and reviewing complaints by adults in custody.
Prohibited Conduct and Discipline – Defines prohibited behaviors and disciplinary processes for adults in custody.
Key Notes
Rules are updated periodically through administrative rulemaking.
They implement statutory authority from the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) related to corrections.
The rules cover both institutional operations and community corrections, balancing security, rehabilitation, and rights of adults in custody.
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