OAR 291-006-0005: Authority, Purpose, and Policy

(1) Authority: The authority for these rules is granted to the Director of the Department of Corrections in accordance with ORS 179.040, 423.020, 423.030, and 423.075. (2) Purpose: The purpose of these rules is to establish department policy and procedures for adults in custody (AICs) to obtain internal review of perceived instances of unfair discriminatory practices or actions by the department based on race, color, national origin, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, or familial status. (3) Policy: Within the inherent limitations of resources and the need to maintain internal security, good order, and discipline in Department of Corrections facilities, the health and safety of adults in custody, employees, contractors, and volunteers, and to promote the rehabilitation of adults in custody, it is the policy of the Department of Corrections: (a) That all adults in custody are treated fairly, equitably, and that employee actions and decisions be consistent with the rules, policies, and procedures of the department. (b) To permit and encourage adults in custody to seek resolution of disputes related to perceived instances of discriminatory practices or actions by an employee, contractor, or volunteer of the Department of Corrections or Oregon Corrections Enterprises by using the department’s internal discrimination complaint review system established in these rules. (c) To promptly and thoroughly review any complaint alleging perceived discrimination and, if appropriate, take measures to resolve the dispute. (d) No person shall be discriminated against, intimidated, threatened, coerced, or suffer any form of retaliation or reprisals, because the person has opposed unlawful discrimination, filed a complaint, testified, assisted, or participated in any manner, in any proceeding regarding unlawful discrimination or has attempted to do so.