OAR 291-109-0100: 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 (AIC) to communicate with employees, and the administration of the department’s internal grievance review and grievance appeal system for individuals in the custody of the Department of Corrections. (3) Policy: (a) It is the policy of the Department of Corrections to encourage adults in custody to address their concerns informally with appropriate employees and managers through dialog or in writing by utilizing communication forms. Adults in custody having information or concerns regarding the conduct or behavior of employees that may directly threaten the life, health, and safety of employees or adults in custody are also encouraged to communicate their information and concerns to the department using such other systems as the department may develop, for example, the Inspector General’s hotline. (b) Recognizing that due to the complex nature of the correctional setting some disputes between employees and adults in custody may not be readily resolved at an informal level, it is the policy of the Department of Corrections to permit and encourage adults in custody to seek resolution of disputes with employees, contractors, or volunteers of the Department of Corrections or Oregon Corrections Enterprises using the department’s internal grievance review and appeal system established in these rules. (c) Within the inherent limitations of resources and the need for facility security, safety, health, and good order, it is the policy of the Department of Corrections that all adults in custody be treated fairly and equitably, and that employee actions and decisions be consistent with the rules, policies, and procedures of the department.