OAR 291-077-0010: Authority, Purpose and Policy

(1) Authority: The authority for this rule is granted to the Director of the Department of Corrections in accordance with ORS 179.040, 421.440, 423.020, 423.030, and 423.075 and Article I, Section 41 of the Oregon Constitution. (2) Purpose: The purpose of this rule is to establish Department of Corrections policy and procedures governing its provision and distribution of monetary awards and other incentives to inmates made under the department’s Performance Recognition and Awards System (PRAS). (3) Policy: (a) Within the inherent limitations of resources and the need for facility security, safety, health and order, it is the policy of the Department of Corrections to make available to inmates monetary awards and other incentives to recognize and encourage good institutional conduct. This includes exceptional performance in work and workforce development assignments and in self-improvement programs that address the criminal behaviors that led to their incarceration. (b) Monetary awards provided to inmates under the PRAS and these rules are made available solely at the discretion of the Department, and may include the following: (A) Performance awards that support the development of good performance and behaviors by inmates in Department of Corrections facilities; and (B) Special Meritorious Awards that reward exceptional acts or behaviors by inmates that contribute to the safe and orderly operation of Department of Corrections facilities. (c) Non-Monetary Incentives: Functional unit managers will examine the assets and practices of their facility and develop and implement non-monetary incentives that support the mission of the Department of Corrections and motivate inmates toward positive institutional behaviors and program compliance.