<subtitle num="01" heading="General Provisions"> <chapter num="01" heading="Definitions; Rules of Construction"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this title, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Addictions counselor” means an employee whose primary duty is to provide substance abuse services in accordance with his or her level of education, training, and experience.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Appointing authority” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>An appointing authority as defined in State Personnel and Pensions Article, §1-101, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>That appointing authority's designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Case manager” means an employee assigned to provide case-management services to youth under the Department's supervision, whether that supervision be informal, probation, detention, commitment, aftercare, or otherwise.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Commit” has the meaning stated in Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §3-8A-01, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Commitment program” means any facility or program to which a committed youth is assigned by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Committed youth” means a youth who, on court disposition, is committed to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Community case manager” means an employee assigned to provide overall case-management to youth residing in the community.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Contraband” means any item, material, substance, or other thing that is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Prohibited for employee or youth possession by law, rule, or regulation, or by directive of the Secretary, a program manager, or an area director; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Brought into a facility or other program site in a manner or under circumstances that are prohibited by law, rule, or regulation, or by directive of the Secretary, a program manager, or an area director.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Department” means the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Detained youth” means a youth who, pending court disposition, is assigned to the Department for detention.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Detention” has the meaning stated in Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §3-8A-01, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Detention program” means any facility or program to which a detained youth is assigned by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Direct care staff” means an employee whose primary duty is to provide direct supervision of youth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Employee” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Any employee of the Department or of any facility or other program; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Any volunteer who provides direct or indirect services to any youth in a facility or other program.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Facility case manager” means a case manager assigned to a residential facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Includes” or “including” means by way of illustration and not by way of limitation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Juvenile justice monitor” has the meaning stated in State Government Article, §6-401, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Person” has the meaning stated in Human Services Article, §1-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Program” means any facility or program operated by, under contract with, licensed or certified by, or otherwise under the jurisdiction or supervision of the Department for the care or treatment of youth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Program manager” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The individual, regardless of title, who has on-site responsibility for and is in charge of all aspects of the management and operation of a facility or other program; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>That individual's designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Secretary” means:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Secretary of Juvenile Services; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Secure facility” means a residential facility characterized by physically restrictive construction or procedures that are intended to prevent:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Detained or committed youth from departing at will; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Unauthorized persons from having access to the facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Youth” means any detained youth, committed youth, or other individual referred to or under the jurisdiction of the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Rules of Construction."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. In interpreting and applying this title, the following rules of construction apply.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Gender. Words denoting one gender include and apply to the other genders as well.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Number. The singular includes the plural and vice versa.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Time Computations.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Computation of Time After an Act, Event, or Default.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>In computing any period of time prescribed by this title, the day of the act, event, or default after which the designated period of time begins to run is not included.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the period of time allowed is more than 7 days, intermediate Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays are counted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If the period of time allowed is 7 days or less, intermediate Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays are not counted.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The last day of the period so computed is included unless it is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, in which event the period runs until the end of the next day that is not a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Computation of Time Before a Day, Act, or Event.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>In determining the latest day for performing an act that is required by this title to be performed a prescribed number of days before a certain day, act, or event, all days preceding that day, including intervening Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, are counted in the number of days so prescribed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The latest day is included in the determination unless it is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, in which event the latest day is the first preceding day that is not a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Scope of Title"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Department's Role."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Statewide Responsibility. The Department of Juvenile Services is responsible for the administration of juvenile services throughout the State.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Operational Autonomy.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department is operationally autonomous from agencies that administer adult services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department is responsible only for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Persons within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Those youths who have been ordered by a juvenile court to be detained in a juvenile facility pending a transfer determination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Application to Public and Private Programs."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. Except as otherwise expressly provided, this title and all standards in this title apply to all facilities and other programs, including those provided by or purchased from the private sector.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Compliance Required. All programs, public or private, and their employees shall comply with all rules, regulations, codes of conduct, standards, and procedures contained in or adopted under this title.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Monitoring Activities. Monitoring activities by the Department or, to the extent of their jurisdiction, by juvenile justice monitors apply to all facilities and other programs, including those provided by or purchased from the private sector.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Private-Sector Residential Facilities."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Additional Requirements. Private-sector residential programs shall also conform, as applicable, to COMAR 14.31.05—COMAR 14.31.07.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Rule of Construction. To the extent any provision of this title, as applied to private-sector providers, is inconsistent with any provision of a regulation listed in §A of this regulation, the latter prevails.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Role of Outside Agencies."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Delineation Required. The role and function of any public or private agency providing services to the Department or to any youth under the jurisdiction of the Department shall be delineated in a written directive, contract, or memorandum of understanding that specifies the agency's responsibilities and relation to the Department and its program managers.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Annual Review. Each directive, contract, or memorandum of understanding shall be reviewed annually and updated as needed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (3412 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Adoption, Amendment, or Repeal of Regulations"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="In General."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Authority of Department. The Department may adopt, amend, or repeal regulations, on a regular or an emergency basis, as prescribed by the Administrative Procedure Act.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Notice and Opportunity for Comment. The Department shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Provide public notice of the proposed adoption, amendment, or repeal; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Afford interested persons an opportunity to submit written data, views, or argument.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Hearing. The Department may hold a hearing on the proposed adoption, amendment, or repeal and afford interested persons the opportunity to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Submit evidence; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Make oral argument.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Petition—Authorized."> <text>Any interested person may petition the Department for the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Petition—Form and Contents."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Form. The petition shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In writing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Filed with the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The petition shall contain:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The petitioner's name, address, and telephone number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The proposed regulation change; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A brief statement of the reasons for the proposed change.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Petition—Action by Secretary."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notice of Receipt. On receipt of a petition, the Secretary shall promptly mail the petitioner a notice of filing, indicating the date the petition was received.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Consideration and Disposition. Within 60 days after the petition is submitted, the Secretary shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Consider the petition; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Either:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Deny the petition and notify the petitioner in writing of the reasons for the denial; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Initiate the procedures for adopting, amending, or repealing the regulation, and notify the petitioner in writing of this action.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Government Article, §§10-122 and 10-123;Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Petition for Declaratory Ruling"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Petition Authorized."> <text>Any interested person may petition the Department for a declaratory ruling on the manner in which the Department would apply any of the following to a person or property on the facts set forth in the petition:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A regulation of the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An order of the Department; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A law that the Department enforces.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Form, Contents, and Verification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Form. The petition shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In writing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Filed with the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The petition shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Contain the petitioner's name, address, and telephone number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Contain a detailed statement of the facts underlying the questioned applicability of the stated regulation, order, or law; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Pose the question of whether or in what manner the stated regulation, order, or law applies to the facts contained in the petition.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Verification. The petition shall also contain a statement by the petitioner, under oath, that the facts set forth in the petition are true to the best of the petitioner's knowledge, information, and belief.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Action by Secretary."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notice of Receipt. On receipt of a petition, the Secretary shall promptly mail the petitioner a notice of filing, indicating the date the petition was received.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Consideration and Disposition. Within 60 days after the petition is submitted, the Secretary shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Consider the petition; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Either:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Issue a written declaratory ruling as requested; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Notify the petitioner in writing of the reasons for not issuing a declaratory ruling.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Effect of Ruling."> <text>If the Secretary issues a declaratory ruling, that ruling binds the Department and the petitioner on the facts set forth in the petition.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Judicial Review."> <text>A declaratory ruling issued under this chapter is subject to judicial review in the same manner that State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland, provides for review of a contested case.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Government Article, §§10-304 and 10-305; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="02" heading="Contested-Case Hearings"> <chapter num="01" heading="Definitions; General Provisions"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this subtitle, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Administrative law judge” has the meaning stated in COMAR 28.02.01.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Contested case” has the meaning stated in State Government Article, §10-202, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Filed” means, unless otherwise indicated in this chapter, when the document is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Received by the Secretary or, if earlier, postmarked; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If required, served on the other parties to the proceeding.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Hearing” means a hearing to determine a contested case.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Party” means a person or agency, including the Department, named or admitted to participate in a hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Person” includes a governmental entity or an instrumentality or unit of a governmental entity.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. This subtitle applies to contested-case hearings before the Secretary of Juvenile Services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Hearings by Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In hearings conducted by an administrative law judge of the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), these regulations shall be construed, whenever possible, in harmony with COMAR 28.02.01.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In the event of conflict between these regulations and COMAR 28.02.01, these regulations control.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Delegation of Hearing Authority."> <text>The Secretary may delegate all or part of the authority to hear a contested case to the OAH.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Revocation of Delegation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Criteria. The Secretary may revoke all or part of a delegation previously made to the OAH if the Secretary believes that the case might:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Involve novel or unanticipated factual or legal issues;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Have significant social or fiscal consequences;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Involve policy issues of general applicability; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Be likely to have precedential value.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Timing. The revocation may be made at any time before the earlier of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The issuance of a ruling on a substantive issue; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The taking of oral testimony from the first witness.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Notice.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary shall provide written notice of a revocation to all parties and the OAH.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The written notice shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Contain a brief statement of the reason for the revocation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Specify whether all or part of the delegation to hear the case is revoked; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If less than all of the delegation is revoked, specify the parts of the contested case for which the delegation has been revoked.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Decision; Record.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary's subsequent decision in the case shall reflect the fact that delegation to the OAH was revoked.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A copy of the revocation notice shall be made a part of the record.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Time Modifications and Waivers."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>By Secretary. The Secretary may modify or waive any time limit established by this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>By Administrative Law Judge. An administrative law judge may not modify or waive any time limit established by this subtitle except with the consent of all parties or the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Service."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Required. A copy of any notice, order, pleading, motion, response, correspondence, decision, paper, or other document filed in a proceeding shall be served promptly on all other parties to the proceeding or, as authorized or required by COMAR 16.02.02.06, their respective authorized representatives.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Manner. Unless otherwise required by law, service shall be made by personal delivery or by regular mail.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Permittees, etc. Service on a party to whom a permit, license, or certification has been issued by the Department may be made by delivering a copy to the last address provided by that party to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Proof of Service.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Every paper or document filed in a proceeding, other than one filed by or on behalf of the Secretary, shall contain or be accompanied by a certificate of service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The certificate of service shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Be signed by or on behalf of the party filing the paper or document; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Specify the:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Date of service;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Manner of service;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Name of each person served; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Address at which each person was served.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Consolidation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When Authorized. When proceedings involving a common question of law or fact are pending before the Secretary, the Secretary may consolidate the proceedings pursuant to a motion or on the Secretary's own initiative.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Special Procedures. If the consolidated proceedings involve different parties or burdens of going forward or persuasion, the Secretary may specify special procedures to assure an expeditious and just proceeding.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Default."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. If, after receiving notice, a party fails to attend or participate in a prehearing conference, a hearing, or any other stage of a proceeding, the Secretary may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Proceed in that party's absence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Continue the matter to a later time; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Issue a default order against that party.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Motion to Vacate or Modify Default Order. Within 30 days after issuance of a default order, the party in default may file a written motion requesting that the order be vacated or modified.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Grant of Motion. The Secretary may grant the motion and vacate or modify the default order if the Secretary finds that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>There is a substantial and sufficient basis for an actual controversy on the merits; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>It is equitable to excuse the default.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Default Order as Final Decision. If a motion is not timely filed or if a motion is filed and denied, the default order is final and effective.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Dismissal for Lack of Prosecution."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When Action Becomes Subject to Dismissal.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In this section “docket entry”:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Means filing a pleading, requesting a hearing date, or scheduling a proceeding; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Does not include the entry or withdrawal of an appearance, case status reports, or other inquiries.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>At the expiration of 6 months from the last docket entry, an action may be dismissed for lack of prosecution.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Initiation; Notice. On request of a party or on the Secretary's own initiative, the Secretary shall notify all parties that an order of dismissal for lack of prosecution will be entered after the expiration of 30 days from the notice, unless a motion is filed under §C of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Motion and Deferral. On motion filed within 30 days of the notice and for good cause shown, the Secretary may defer entry of an order of dismissal for the period and on the terms the Secretary considers proper.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Entry of Order. If a motion is not timely filed or if a motion is filed and denied, the Secretary shall issue an order of dismissal.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Prehearing Procedures"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Notice of Right to Hearing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notice Required. The Department shall provide notice of its action whenever, by law or regulation, that action gives rise to the right to request a contested-case hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The notice shall state:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The factual basis for the action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The statutory or regulatory provision under which the action is taken;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The sanction proposed or potential penalty, if any;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The right to request a hearing on the action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>What a person must do to receive a hearing and the time periods within which the person must act; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The consequences of a failure to timely request a hearing or to appear for a scheduled hearing, including a statement that unless a hearing is requested the Department action becomes final and binding on all parties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Accompanying Forms. If the Department requires that the request for a hearing be filed on a specific form, a copy of that form shall accompany the notice.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Request for Hearing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When Required. A request for a hearing shall be filed:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Within the time period specified by relevant law; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If no time period is specified, within 30 days of the date of the notice of the right to a hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The request shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>State the name and mailing address of the person requesting the hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Specify the action of the Department to which the request for hearing applies;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Briefly state the basis for the request; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Provide or be accompanied by any documents or other information required by law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Form. If the notice of the right to a hearing included a specific form for requesting a hearing, the request shall be made on that form.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Incomplete Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. If a hearing request lacks necessary information or is otherwise improper, the Secretary may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Deny the request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Return the request for resubmission in proper form and with all necessary information; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Conditionally accept the request subject to submission, within the time the Secretary specifies, of supplemental information.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Effect of Denial, Return, or Conditional Acceptance. The denial, return, or conditional acceptance of a request does not extend the time under Regulation .02A of this chapter within which a request is required to be filed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Notice of Hearing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. The Secretary shall give all parties reasonable written notice of the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The hearing notice shall state:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The date, time, place, and nature of the hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The right to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Call witnesses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Offer evidence, including rebuttal evidence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Cross-examine any witness that another party or the Department calls; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Present summation and argument;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The right, if applicable, to request subpoenas for witnesses and evidence, and the costs, if any, associated with such a request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The right to request a copy of the hearing proceedings and the costs, if any, associated with such a request;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Any right or restrictions on representation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>That failure to appear for the scheduled hearing may result in an adverse action against that party; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>That the parties may agree to the evidence and waive their right to appear at the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Expedited Hearing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. Any party may file a motion for an expedited hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The motion for an expedited hearing shall set forth the reasons for the request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Waiver. A request for an expedited hearing waives applicable notice requirements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Ruling.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary shall rule on a request for an expedited hearing within 3 days after receiving the request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All parties shall be notified promptly of the decision on the motion.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Timetable. If the Secretary grants an expedited hearing, the Secretary's ruling shall establish precise time frames for the conduct and completion of the hearing and for the issuance of a final decision.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Representation; Entry of Appearance."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. A party may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Represent himself or herself;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Be represented by an attorney authorized to practice law in Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If authorized by law, appear through a representative who is not an attorney.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Entry of Appearance Required. A party's representative shall enter an appearance with the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Effect of Entry—General. After an appearance has been entered and unless subsequently withdrawn in writing:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The representative shall be sent copies of all notices, pleadings, and other correspondence; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All notices, pleadings, and other correspondence required to be sent to a party may be sent instead to that party's representative and all presumptions regarding notices to parties shall apply.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Effect of Entry—Attorney. If a party is represented by an attorney, all discovery requests, submissions of evidence, examinations of witnesses, objections, and motions on behalf of the party may be made only by the party's attorney.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Discovery."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Request for Production of Documents.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>By timely written request, a party may require any other party to produce, for inspection or copying, any file, memorandum, correspondence, or other document or any tangible thing that is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Relevant to the subject matter of the case; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Not privileged.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>To be timely, the written request shall be served on all parties and filed with the Secretary not later than 30 days before the scheduled hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Compliance.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The party to whom the request is addressed shall comply within 15 days of service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Copies of requested documents shall be made at the expense of the party making the request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The charge for copies of requested documents may be waived or reduced by the custodian of the documents in accordance with COMAR 16.03.03.09G, or other applicable law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Regulation Exclusive. Unless otherwise provided by law or by agreement of the parties, no other discovery procedure may be required.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Subpoenas."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Issuance Authorized. On request of a party, the Secretary may issue subpoenas to require:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The attendance and testimony of witnesses at the hearing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The production at the hearing of any tangible items in the possession or under the control of a witness.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Requests.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A request for a subpoena shall be in writing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>To the extent practicable, the request shall be filed at least 10 days before the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The request shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Specify the name and full address of the person to be subpoenaed;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Describe with particularity any tangible items to be produced under the subpoena; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Provide the name, full address, and telephone number of the party requesting the subpoena.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A subpoena request need not be served on other parties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Service.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Subpoenas may be served as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>By personal delivery by an individual who is 18 years old or older and not a party to the proceeding;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>By certified mail to the person at the address specified in the subpoena request; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If mailed by the Secretary, by regular mail.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For subpoenas requested fewer than 10 days before the scheduled hearing, the requestor shall provide service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In all events, the costs of personal delivery or certified mail are the responsibility of the person requesting that service.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Proof of Service. Proof of service may be made as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For certified mail, by filing the original return receipt; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For personal delivery, by an affidavit that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Is signed by the person who made service;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Avers that the affiant is 18 years old or older and not a party to the proceeding; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Specifies:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The name of the person served;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The date on which the person was served; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The particular place of service.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Objections. A person may object to a subpoena by filing a motion to quash or for other relief.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Enforcement. On a person's failure to comply with a subpoena, the Secretary or the party requesting the subpoena may apply to an appropriate circuit court for its enforcement.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Intervention."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Criteria. On timely motion, a person may be permitted to intervene in an action if:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The person has standing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The person:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Has an unconditional right to intervene as a matter of law; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Claims an interest relating to the subject matter of the hearing that is:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Adversely affected; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Not adequately represented by existing parties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Deadline. To be timely, a motion to intervene shall be filed not later than 15 days before the earlier of the prehearing conference or the scheduled hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Contents. The motion to intervene shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>State the grounds for the motion; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Set forth the claim or defense for which intervention is sought.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Considerations; Conditions.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary shall consider:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Whether the grounds for the motion meet the criteria for intervention; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If they do, whether the intervention nonetheless will unduly delay or prejudice the adjudication of the rights of the original parties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>As soon as practicable, the Secretary shall issue an order denying or allowing the intervention.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In an order allowing intervention, the Secretary may place conditions on the intervenor's participation in the proceedings.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Judicial Review.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Judicial review of the denial of a motion to intervene may be sought in accordance with law.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Secretary may stay proceedings pending resolution of a judicial review sought under this section.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Prehearing Conference."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. The Secretary may hold a prehearing conference to address and seek to resolve any one or more of the following preliminary matters:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Issuance of subpoenas;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Identification of contested factual and legal issues;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Stipulations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Requests for official notice;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Identification and exchange of documentary evidence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Admissibility of evidence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Identification and qualification of witnesses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Motions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Discovery disputes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Order of presentation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Scheduling;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Settlement possibilities or conferences; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Any other matters that might promote the orderly and prompt conduct of the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Preconference Submissions. The Secretary may require the parties to submit prehearing statements or other relevant information before the prehearing conference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Conduct of Conference.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The prehearing conference may be conducted by telephone, video, or other electronic means.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>At the Secretary's discretion, all or part of the prehearing conference may be recorded.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Prehearing Orders.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Unless otherwise stated in this subtitle, the Secretary shall issue a prehearing order that sets forth the actions taken or to be taken on any matter addressed at the prehearing conference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The prehearing order shall be made a part of the record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Each party to the proceeding is bound by the Secretary's prehearing order, whether the party participated in the prehearing conference or not.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Alternative Dispute Resolution."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this regulation, “ADR” means alternative dispute resolution, a process of resolving matters pending before the Secretary through one or more of the following:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Settlement conference;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Neutral case evaluation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Neutral fact finding; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Other nonadversarial dispute resolution process.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Authorized. If all parties agree, the Secretary may schedule an ADR proceeding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Presiding Officer. The individual who presides at the ADR proceeding may not:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Preside at the prehearing conference, the hearing on the merits, or any other stage of the contested case;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Advise the Secretary regarding any decision on the merits of the contested case; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Be called to testify, participate in discovery, or otherwise provide information in any subsequent stage of the contested case.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Confidentiality of Proceedings.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>An ADR proceeding is confidential and shall be closed to the public.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Discussions in an ADR proceeding may not be made a part of the record of any stage of the contested case.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>An ADR proceeding may not be recorded electronically or in any other manner.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Motions"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="In General."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Scope. Unless otherwise provided in this subtitle, this chapter governs all motions filed with the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>When Authorized. Unless otherwise provided in this subtitle, a party may move for appropriate relief before or during a hearing.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Motions Before Hearing."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>To Be in Writing. Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, all motions made before a hearing shall be submitted in writing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Filing and Service. The motion shall be filed with the Secretary and served on all parties at least 15 days before the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Contents. The motion shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>State concisely the question to be determined; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Be accompanied by any necessary supporting documentation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Answer. An answer to a prehearing motion shall be filed and served on all parties by the earlier of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>15 days after receipt of the motion; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The date of the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Hearing on Motion.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>On notice to all parties, the Secretary may schedule a hearing to consider a prehearing motion.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Failure of a party to attend a hearing scheduled to consider a prehearing motion may be grounds for a decision adverse to that party.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Motions During Hearing."> <text>During a hearing, all motions shall be submitted orally.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Motion to Dismiss."> <text>On motion of a party or on the Secretary's own initiative, the Secretary may issue a final decision dismissing a notice of agency action, an appeal of an agency action, or any other request for a hearing that fails to state a claim for which relief may be granted.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Motion for Summary Decision."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. A party may move for summary decision on any appropriate issue in the case.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Decision. The Secretary may grant a final summary decision if the Secretary finds that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>There is no genuine issue as to any material fact; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The moving party is entitled to prevail as a matter of law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Ruling on Motion."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. Except as provided in §B of this regulation, the Secretary may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Issue a written decision on a motion; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>State the decision on the record.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Reserved Ruling.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary may reserve ruling on a motion until after the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If a ruling is reserved, the ruling shall be issued:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>In a separate writing; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>As part of the Secretary's final decision.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Effect of Ruling. All parties are bound by the Secretary's ruling notwithstanding their failure to attend a hearing.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Time Limits Unaffected by Motion."> <text>The filing or pendency of a motion does not alter or extend any time limit otherwise established by law or this subtitle.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Hearing Procedures"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Venue."> <text>Hearings shall be conducted at a site designated by the Secretary.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Proceedings to be Public."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this regulation, all proceedings before the Secretary shall be open to the public.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Proceedings shall be closed to the public to the extent:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Necessary to preserve confidentiality provided by law for individuals or records; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Otherwise required by law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>On motion or on the Secretary's own initiative, the Secretary may close all or any part of the proceedings for good cause shown.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Maintaining Order. The Secretary may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Remove individuals whose conduct impedes the orderly progress of the hearing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Restrict attendance because of the physical limitations of the hearing facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Recording Equipment. Recording equipment (cameras, tape recorders, and other sound or video equipment) shall be excluded from the hearing room:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>When required by law; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the Secretary determines that the use of this equipment may impede the orderly progress of the proceedings or otherwise interfere with the process.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Records. Unless otherwise provided by law, all documents, notices, and records in the Secretary's possession as a result of a contested-case proceeding are subject to inspection and copying under the Public Information Act (State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 6, Part III, Annotated Code of Maryland), and COMAR16.03.03.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Postponement; Continuance."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Request for Postponement. A request for postponement may be made in writing or by telephone.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Parties to be Contacted. When practicable, all parties to a proceeding shall be contacted before a ruling is made on the request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Action by Secretary.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary may grant the motion for good cause and as justice requires.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Secretary may postpone or continue a hearing on the Secretary's own initiative.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Hearing by Telephone or Other Electronic Means."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this section, the Secretary may conduct all or part of the hearing by telephone, video conference, or other electronic means, if each participant in the hearing has an opportunity to participate in, hear, and (for video means) see the entire proceeding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>On objection for good cause, the hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the alternatives specified in State Government Article, §10-211(b), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Rights Unaffected. All substantive and procedural rights apply to telephone, video conference, or other electronic hearings, subject only to the limitations of the physical arrangement.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Documentary Evidence. For a hearing conducted by electronic means, documentary evidence to be offered must be delivered by the proponent to all parties and the Secretary at least 1 day before the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Default. For a hearing conducted by electronic means, the following may be considered as a failure to appear and grounds for default, if the condition exists for more than 15 minutes after the scheduled start of the hearing:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Failure to answer telephone;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Failure to free telephone for a hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Failure to be present in the designated video or audio hearing room; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Any other failure to be ready to proceed with the hearing as scheduled.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="General Conduct of Hearings."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Secretary's Duties. The Secretary shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Conduct a full, fair, and impartial hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Take action to avoid unnecessary delay in the disposition of the proceedings; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Maintain order.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Secretary's Powers—General. The Secretary's authority to regulate the conduct of the proceedings includes the power to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Administer oaths and affirmations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Rule on offers of proof and receive relevant and material evidence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Rule on motions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Call and examine witnesses to insure a full and complete record;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Limit unduly repetitious testimony and limit the time for presentations;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Request parties to submit legal memoranda and proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Issue orders as necessary to secure procedural simplicity and administrative fairness and to eliminate unjustifiable expense and delay;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Conduct the hearing in a manner suited to ascertain the facts and safeguard the parties' rights; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Impose appropriate sanctions for failure to abide by this subtitle or any order of the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Secretary's Powers—Prehearing Order. Whether or not a prehearing conference is held, the Secretary may issue a prehearing order to regulate the conduct of the proceedings.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Sanctions. The sanctions authorized by this regulation include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Limiting the issues to be heard;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Dismissing all or any part of the request for a hearing; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Entering an order on the merits against a party.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Stipulations."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Authorized. The parties may agree by stipulation to any substantive or procedural matter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>How Made. A stipulation may be filed in writing or entered on the record at the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Additional Development. The Secretary may require additional development of stipulated matters.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Waiver of Right to Appear."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A party may waive the right to appear personally at the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A waiver may be made:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Orally to the Secretary; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In writing and filed with the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Withdrawal. A waiver may be withdrawn only by written notice received by the Secretary at least 5 days before the earlier of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The scheduled hearing; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The date that applicable law permits for the issuance of the Secretary's decision.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Not a Default. If a party has filed a waiver under this regulation, the failure of that party to appear personally or by representative may not result in a finding of default.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Waiver of Hearing."> <text>The Secretary need not hold a hearing if all parties agree to the admission of evidence and waive their right to appear.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="General Order of Proceedings."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Start of Proceeding. At the start of the proceedings, the Secretary shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Briefly explain the purpose and nature of the hearing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>State the order of presentation of evidence.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Preliminary Matters. The Secretary may allow the parties, before presentation of evidence, to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Present preliminary matters; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Make opening statements.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Admission and Exclusion of Evidence."> <text>Evidence shall be admitted and excluded in accordance with State Government Article, §10-213, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Witnesses."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Witness List.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Prior to the hearing, and whether or not a prehearing conference is held, the Secretary may order that each party make available to the other parties the names and written reports of experts and other witnesses the party expects to call.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Failure to comply in good faith with the order is grounds for the refusal to admit the oral or written testimony of that witness or a report of that expert.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Oath or Affirmation. Witnesses shall take an oath or affirmation to tell the truth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Exclusion from Proceedings.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>On request of a party, the Secretary shall exclude witnesses other than parties from the hearing room, except when testifying.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A party, representative, witness, spectator, or other person may not disclose to any witness excluded under this section the nature, substance, or purpose of any testimony, exhibit, or other evidence introduced during that witness' absence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A party that is not an individual may designate an employee or officer to remain in the hearing room as its representative, even though the employee or officer may be a witness.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>An expert witness who is to render an opinion based on testimony given at the hearing may remain during that testimony.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>If a witness receives information in violation of this section, the Secretary may:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Exclude the testimony of that witness; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Take other appropriate action.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Affidavits; Prefiled Testimony."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Affidavits. The Secretary may admit an affidavit as evidence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Prefiled Testimony.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In the Secretary's discretion, testimony may be received in written form.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The testimony shall be filed with the Secretary and served on opposing parties at least 5 days before the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Interpreters."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Appointment. If a party or witness cannot readily hear, speak, or understand spoken or written English, the Secretary shall arrange for a qualified interpreter to provide assistance during the hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Oath or Affirmation. The interpreter shall take an oath or affirm that he or she will accurately translate.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Burdens of Going Forward and Persuasion."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Scope. This regulation does not modify any burden of going forward or burden of persuasion that is imposed on a party by specific statute or regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Burdens for Permits, Licenses, and Certifications.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A party requesting a hearing following notice of the Department's intent to deny or refuse to renew a permit, license, or certification bears:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The burden of going forward to establish a prima facie case of entitlement to the permit or license; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The burden of persuasion that the permit or license should be issued.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A party contesting the Department's proposed decision to issue or renew a permit, license, or certification bears:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The burden of going forward to establish a prima facie case that grounds exist for denying the license or permit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The burden of persuasion that the license or permit should be denied.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>In a proceeding following notice by the Department of an intent to revoke or suspend a permit, license, or certification, the Department bears:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The burden of going forward to establish a prima facie case as to the existence of grounds for revocation or suspension; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The burden of persuasion that the permit, license, or certification should be revoked or suspended.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Burdens Established—Departmental Order. In a proceeding contesting an order or proposed order of the Department, the Department bears:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The burden of going forward to establish a prima facie case as to existence of grounds for issuance of the order; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The burden of persuasion that the order be issued.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Burdens Established—Party Asserting Affirmative of Issue. Except as otherwise specified in this regulation, the party asserting the affirmative of an issue before the Secretary bears both the burden of going forward and the burden of persuasion.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Secretary's Decision.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary shall find against a party with the burden of going forward if that party has not presented sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case for the party's claim or defense.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Secretary shall find against a party with the burden of persuasion if that party has not presented evidence sufficient to establish the correctness of the party's claim or defense by a preponderance of the evidence.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Transcript of Proceedings."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Recording.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A recording of the hearing shall be made at the Department's expense.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The recording need not be transcribed unless requested by a party or by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Transcription.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If a party is seeking judicial review of a final decision, that party shall request a transcript of the recording, unless a transcript already has been prepared.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If a party is excepting to or appealing from a proposed decision, that party shall request a transcript of the recording, unless a transcript already has been prepared or the Secretary waives the requirement for a transcript.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The party requesting the transcript is responsible for all costs of transcription unless, at the party's request, the Department agrees to reduce or waive those costs for good cause shown.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Record, Decision, and Judicial Review"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Record of Proceedings."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Record Required. The Secretary shall prepare an official record of each hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The record shall consist of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All documents giving rise to the proceeding;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All requests for hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>All notices of proceedings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>All prehearing orders;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>All questions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>All motions, pleadings, petitions, and requests and the ruling on each;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>All briefs and memoranda;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>All documentary and tangible evidence received or considered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>A statement of each fact of which official notice is taken;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Each proffer of proof and the ruling on the proffer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Each objection and the ruling on the objection;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Any staff memorandum submitted to an individual involved in the decision-making process by an official or employee of the Department who is not authorized to participate in the decision-making process;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>All matters placed on the record after an ex parte communication;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>Each proposed finding of fact, conclusion of law, and order proposed by a party or the presiding officer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>Each exception to a proposed finding of fact, conclusion of law, or order proposed by the presiding officer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>Each intermediate, proposed, and final ruling or order, including each report or opinion issued in connection with that ruling or order; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>The recording of the hearing and, if made, of any prehearing proceeding, and any transcript made of the recording.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Proposed Decision and Order."> <text>Each proposed decision and order shall comply with State Government Article, §10-220, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Exceptions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Time for Filing. Exceptions to a proposed decision and order shall be filed with the Secretary within 21 days after the proposed decision and order is issued.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Form and Contents. All exceptions shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be in writing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Identify each portion of the proposed decision to which exception is taken; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Contain a concise statement of the asserted basis for taking the exception.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Service. A copy of the exceptions shall be served on all parties.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Argument.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All parties shall be afforded the opportunity to present written argument to the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Secretary may conduct an exceptions hearing for the purpose of hearing oral argument. The length of any argument may be limited at the Secretary's discretion.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Review Limited to Hearing Record.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary's review and consideration of exceptions shall be limited to the record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>At an exceptions hearing:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Additional evidence may not be introduced; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Additional witnesses may not be heard by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Reference to Hearing Evidence.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If a party intends to refer to any evidence produced at the hearing, the party shall notify the Department of the specific evidence in its request for exceptions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>That party is responsible for filing with the Secretary a copy of the transcript of the hearing, or relevant portions of it, at that party's expense, at least 5 days before the scheduled exceptions hearing, if a hearing is to be held.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If all parties agree, a stipulation of facts may be submitted instead of a transcript.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Decision.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary shall consider all exceptions timely filed before rendering a final decision.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Secretary shall adopt a final decision and an order as soon as possible after exceptions have been filed and argument presented.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Final Decision and Order."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. Each final decision and order shall comply with State Government Article, §10-221, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Authority of Secretary.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary is not bound by an administrative law judge's recommendation, even if no exceptions have been filed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If exceptions have not been filed and, after reviewing a proposed decision by an administrative law judge, the Secretary is unable to approve that decision as written, the Secretary shall notify all parties and invite arguments from the affected parties on the issues the Secretary is reconsidering.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Final Agency Decision.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary's decision is the final decision of the Department for the purpose of judicial review.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In the event of fraud, mistake, or irregularity, the Secretary may correct a final decision at any time.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Service. Copies of the final decision, including the Secretary's findings of fact, conclusions of law, and order, shall be delivered or mailed promptly to all parties.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Stay."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Request Authorized. Except as prohibited by law, a party that is adversely affected by a final order may request a stay from the Secretary pending judicial review.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Time for Filing. A request for a stay shall be filed with the Secretary within 10 days of the date of the final order from which the stay is sought.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Contents. The request shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A statement of the reasons the stay is sought; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A statement of the grounds for judicial review.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Effect of Request. A request for a stay does not operate as a stay and does not extend the time for seeking judicial review.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Grant of Stay.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary may hold a hearing on the request for a stay or rule on the request without a hearing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Secretary may grant the stay subject to the conditions, including security or bond, that the Secretary considers proper.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Judicial Review."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Requisites. Unless otherwise agreed to by the parties, a party may not seek judicial review of a decision of the Secretary unless:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The party has filed exceptions with the Secretary to the proposed decision; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Secretary has rendered a final decision.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Exception. This regulation does not apply to cases for which the Secretary has delegated final decision-making authority to the Office of Administrative Hearings.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="03" heading="Records and Meetings"> <chapter num="01" heading="Youth Records"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Individual Case Records."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Required. Each facility or other program to which a youth is principally assigned shall maintain a case record for each youth assigned to that program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The case record shall include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Identifying information about the youth and the youth's parents, guardians, or care-givers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A recent photograph of the youth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Prior placement information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A treatment service plan adopted under Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §3-8A-20.1, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Documentation of services provided during the youth's detention or commitment;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Documentation of services provided or offered to the youth in the community;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Written reports about the youth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Health records, including health, mental health, substance abuse, and other evaluations of the youth, including suicide risk;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Educational records;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Legal documents;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Classification and assessment documents;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>A discharge plan that specifies the required level of supervision and services;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Disciplinary incident documentation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>Progress notes.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Retention Period. The Department shall retain the case record for each youth in accordance with its most currently approved records retention schedule.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Program Register."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Required. Each facility or other program shall maintain a register of each youth admitted to the program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The register shall include each youth's:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Name;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Sex;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Date of birth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>County of residence;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Court status;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Date of admission and then-anticipated date of discharge; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Date of discharge.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Closure of Private-Sector Program."> <text>The Department shall require that, if a private-sector program closes, all case records and all other records concerning particular youth are:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Returned to the Department; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Retained securely until their destruction is ordered or required by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Change in Provider."> <text>The Department shall require that, if there is a change in the private-sector provider operating a program, the former provider turn over all case records and other records concerning particular youth to the Department or to the new provider.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Destruction of Records."> <text>The Department and each program may destroy records only in a manner that:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Preserves their confidentiality; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Is consistent with State law and policy on records retention and destruction.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Records Security and Confidentiality"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="In General."> <text>All records and other information kept by the Department or any program about any youth shall be maintained and properly secured to preserve their confidentiality.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Release Restricted."> <text>An employee of the Department or of any program, public or private, may not disclose or knowingly allow the disclosure of any confidential record or information to any person except in accordance with law.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Policies."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. The Secretary shall issue policies, as appropriate, to ensure that all records and other information are maintained in a secure fashion to prevent loss, destruction, or unauthorized access.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Elements. Policies under §A of this regulation shall, at a minimum:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Identify the staff positions responsible for the custody and maintenance of records and information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Warn all employees of the Department and of all private-sector providers that they may not disclose or knowingly permit the disclosure of any confidential record or information to any unauthorized person; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Establish procedures to monitor and track access to all records and information.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §§9-204 and 9-219; Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §3-8A-27; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Inspection and Copying under Public Information Act"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter sets out the procedures for filing requests with the Department for the inspection and copying of records under the Public Information Act. It is the Department's policy to facilitate access to public records by minimizing costs and time delays to persons requesting information.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Act” or “Public Information Act” means State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 6, Part III, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Applicant” means a person who asks to inspect a public record.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Custodian” has the meaning stated in State Government Article, §10-611, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Official custodian” means, unless otherwise provided by law, the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Public record” has the meaning stated in State Government Article, §10-611, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Who, When, and Where."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Who May Request. Any person may request to inspect or copy a public record that is in the Department's custody and control.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Time of Inspection. An applicant may inspect a public record during the Department's normal working hours.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Place of Inspection. The inspection shall take place where the document is located unless, after taking into account the applicant's wishes, the custodian determines that another place is more suitable and convenient.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Records Designated for Immediate Inspection."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Secretary to Consider Designation. From time to time, the Secretary shall consider whether to designate specific types of public records to be made immediately available for inspection, without need for a written request.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>List of Designated Records. The Secretary shall maintain and make available to custodians a current list of the types of public records that the Secretary has designated under §A of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Request to Inspect."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §A(2) of this regulation, a request to inspect a public record shall be made in writing.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A request need not be in writing if:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The record is of a type listed by the Secretary under Regulation .04B of this chapter; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The custodian waives the requirement for a written request.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents of Written Request. A written request shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Reasonably identify, by brief description, the record sought;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Contain the applicant's name, address, and telephone number, as needed for the purpose of contacting the applicant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Be signed by the applicant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Filing Written Request. The applicant shall address a written request to the custodian of the record sought.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Response to Written Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. Within the time limits and in the manner prescribed by the Act, a custodian shall respond in writing to a written request as provided in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If Respondent Not Custodian. If the person to whom the request is made is not the custodian of the requested records, the person shall so notify the applicant as provided in State Government Article, §10-614(a), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>If Record Does Not Exist. If the person to whom the request is made determines that the record does not exist, the person shall so notify the applicant as provided in State Government Article, §10-614(a), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>If Respondent is Custodian. If the person to whom the request is made is the custodian of the requested records, the custodian shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Grant the application, in whole or in part, in accordance with State Government Article, §§10-614(b) and 10-620, Annotated Code of Maryland;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Deny the application, in whole or in part, as required or authorized by State Government Article, §§10-615—10-618, Annotated Code of Maryland, and these regulations, in accordance with State Government Article, §10-614(b), Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the official custodian believes that inspection would cause substantial injury to the public interest, deny inspection temporarily and seek court approval in accordance with State Government Article, §10-619, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Notice to Persons Affected by Disclosure."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Notice. Unless prohibited by law, the custodian may notify any person who could be adversely affected by disclosure of a record that a request for inspection or copying of the record has been made.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Consideration of Views. The custodian may consider the views of that person before deciding whether to disclose the record to the applicant. However, the custodian may not deny disclosure except as authorized and for the reasons given in the Act or this subtitle.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Review of Denial."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Right to Review. Except for a temporary denial under State Government Article, §10-619, Annotated Code of Maryland, if a written request is denied by the custodian, the applicant may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Within 30 days after receiving notice of the denial, request an administrative hearing under State Government Article, §10-622, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>File an action in circuit court under State Government Article, §10-623, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Conduct of Administrative Hearing. If the applicant requests an administrative hearing, the hearing shall be conducted as provided in State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland, and COMAR 16.02.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Judicial Review. If the hearing results in a total or partial denial of the written request, the applicant may file an action in the circuit court under State Government Article, §10-623, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this section, the fee schedule for copying and certifying copies of records is as provided in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the fee for a copy, printout, photograph, or certification of any record is specified by other law, the specified fee governs over the fees in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>No fee may be charged if the total amount accrued under the fee schedule is $1 or less.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Search and Preparation Time.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Except as provided in §B(2) of this regulation, the Secretary may establish and charge a reasonable fee for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Time spent searching for requested records; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Time spent preparing records for inspection and copying.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>No fee may be charged for the first 2 hours needed to search for a record and prepare it for inspection.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Photocopying. If the copying is done on a machine that belongs to the Department, the charge is:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>25 cents a page; plus</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For any copying that requires more than 10 minutes of an employee's time, commensurate with that employee's rate of compensation for the time spent.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Other Reproductions.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For records that are not susceptible to photocopying, for example, punch cards, magnetic tapes, blueprints, and microfilm, the charge for reproducing the record will be the actual cost, determined on a case-by-case basis.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the custodian is unable to copy a record within the Department, the custodian shall arrange for the prompt reproduction of the record at other public or private facilities. The charge for reproducing the record will be the actual cost, determined on a case-by-case basis.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Certification of Copies. For certifying a record as being a true copy of the original, the fee is $1 for each certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Cost Estimates. Before reproducing a record, the custodian shall estimate the cost of reproduction and obtain the applicant's agreement to pay the cost. The custodian may require the applicant to prepay the estimated cost by cash or certified check.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Waiver or Reduction. On an applicant's request, the custodian may waive or reduce any fee imposed under this regulation if, after considering the applicant's ability to pay and other relevant factors, the custodian determines that the waiver or reduction is in the public interest.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Postage or Delivery Costs. If the applicant requests that copies be mailed or delivered, the custodian may charge the applicant for the cost of postage or delivery.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Government Article, §§10-613(b) and 10-621; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Correction of Personal Records"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>This chapter sets out procedures for requesting the correction of personal records under State Government Article, §10-625, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Custodian” has the meaning stated in State Government Article, §10-611, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Personal record” has the meaning stated in State Government Article, §10-624, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Person in interest” has the meaning stated in State Government Article, §10-611, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Request Authorized."> <text>A person in interest may request the Department to correct inaccurate or incomplete information in any public record of the Department that the person in interest is authorized to inspect.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Form and Contents of Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Form. The request shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In writing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Filed with:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The custodian of the record; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>If the custodian is unknown to the person in interest, the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The request shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Contain the name, address, and telephone number of the person requesting the correction;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Identify the personal records sought to be corrected;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Specify the precise correction sought; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>State the reason for the correction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Return of Incomplete Request."> <text>If a request does not reasonably comply with Regulation .04 of this chapter, it shall be returned to the person with an explanation of the reason for the return and a statement that, on completion, it may be refiled with the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Response to Request."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. Within 30 days after receiving a request that complies with Regulation .04 of this chapter, the custodian shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Make or refuse to make the requested correction; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Notify the person in writing of the action taken.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If Refused.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the custodian refuses to make the requested correction, the notice shall inform the person of the reason for the refusal.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The notice shall specify whether the refusal is because:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The person is not a person in interest;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The records sought to be corrected are not personal records;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The records sought to be corrected are not of the type the person is authorized to inspect;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The records are correct as they stand; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Of any other reason authorized by law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Statement of Disagreement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. On receipt of a refusal under Regulation .06B of this chapter, the person in interest may submit to the custodian a concise statement of the reasons for:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The requested correction; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The person's disagreement with the refusal to make the correction.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Form of Statement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The statement of disagreement may not exceed five pages.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The pages may not exceed 81/2" × 11" each.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Only one side of a page may be used for the statement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Information Provided Third Parties."> <text>When the Department discloses to a third party information about which a statement of disagreement has been filed in compliance with Regulation .07 of this chapter, a copy of the statement shall also be provided to that third party.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Administrative Review."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Authorized. A person may seek administrative review of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A denial of the person's request under this chapter to correct a record;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A denial of the person's right to submit a statement of disagreement; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A failure to provide a copy of a statement of disagreement to a third party, as required by Regulation .08 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Time for Requesting. A request for administrative review shall be filed within 30 days of the date the person first learns of the denial or failure in question.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Proceedings. The administrative review shall be conducted as provided in State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland, and COMAR 16.02.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Government Article, §10-625; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Information Technology"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="In General."> <text>The Department shall develop and maintain an information support system designed to serve the Department's data needs for administration, research, evaluation, and planning.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Database Access."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. The Department shall require that each public-sector and private-sector program be capable of accessing the Department's information support system.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Security. Links among computer systems shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Comply with all federal and State requirements; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Be designed to prevent unauthorized access to confidential records.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="IT Unit Functions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>State-Operated Programs. The Department's Information Technology Unit is responsible for the installation and maintenance of computer hardware and software for all State-operated facilities and other programs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Private-Sector Providers.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department's Information Technology Unit may:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Assist private-sector providers in having their local area networks connected to the information support system; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Provide training for the entering of data into the system.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Additional equipment costs, including personal computers that meet the Department's specifications, may be the responsibility of the provider.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Program Staff Functions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. All youth-related data, from time of admission to discharge, shall be entered into the information support system in a timely and accurate manner.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Data to be Entered. The data to be entered shall be as specified by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="06" heading="" reason="Vacant" /> <chapter num="07" heading="Open Meetings"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definition."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following term has the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Term Defined. “Board” means:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The State Advisory Board for Juvenile Services; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Any other board, commission, or entity of the Department that is a public body, as that term is defined in State Government Article, §10-502, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Public Attendance and Observance Allowed."> <text>At any open session of a board, the general public is invited to attend and observe.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Public Participation Limited."> <text>A member of the public attending an open session may not participate in the session except to the extent:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Board expressly invites or allows public testimony, questions, comments, or other forms of public participation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A person is entitled by law to participate.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Disruptive Conduct Prohibited."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. A person attending an open session of a board may not engage in any conduct, including visual demonstrations such as the waving of placards, signs, or banners, that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Disrupts the session; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Interferes with the public's right to attend and observe the session.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Enforcement. If any person persists in conduct prohibited by §A of this regulation or violates any other regulation concerning the conduct of the open session, the presiding officer may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Order the person to be removed from the session;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Request police assistance to restore order; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Recess the session until order is restored.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Recording, Photographing, or Broadcasting."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Authorized Generally. A member of the public, including a representative of the news media, may record, photograph, videotape, broadcast, or televise the proceedings of an open session by means of a tape recorder, camera, or other device or equipment, if the device or equipment:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Is operated without excessively bright artificial light that disturbs board members or other individuals attending the session;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Does not create an excessive noise that disturbs board members or other individuals attending the session; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Does not otherwise:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Disrupt the session; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Interfere with the public's right to attend and observe the session.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Restricted Movement.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If necessary to maintain the orderly conduct of the session, the presiding officer may restrict the movement of the person who is using a recording device, a camera, or broadcasting or televising equipment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the person refuses to comply or otherwise persists in conduct prohibited by this regulation or any other regulation concerning the conduct of the open session, the presiding officer may take action as authorized in Regulation .04B of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Recordings Not Part of Record."> <text>Neither a recording of an open session made by a member of the public nor a transcript derived from this recording is considered a part of the record of any proceeding of the board.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Government Article, §10-507(b); Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="04" heading="Administrative Services"> <chapter num="01" heading="Juvenile Facilities Capital Program"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter governs the administration of State grants to counties, municipal corporations, and for-profit and nonprofit organizations for the planning, design, construction, conversion, acquisition, renovation, and equipping of juvenile facilities under the Juvenile Services Facilities Capital Program.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Acquire” means to purchase or otherwise obtain ownership of all or part of a building or other property for use as a juvenile facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Act” or “Juvenile Services Facilities Capital Program” means Human Services Article, §9-401 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Construct” means to construct a new building or an addition to an existing building for use as a facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Convert” means to transform all or part of a building or other property for use as a facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Equip” means to acquire essential fixed or movable equipment and furnishings that have an expected useful life of at least 15 years.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Facility” has the meaning stated in Human Services Article, §9-401, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Renovate” means to restore, improve, or modernize all or part of an existing or proposed facility and bring it into compliance with federal, State, and local standards, codes, and requirements, so that it may retain or acquire a license to provide treatment or services or to increase the number of youths the facility serves.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“State grant” means a grant provided under the Act.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility to Apply."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Who. To be eligible for a State grant, the applicant shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A county;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A municipal corporation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>A for-profit organization; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A nonprofit organization.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For What. An application may be filed for any one or more of the following facility-related projects, including their planning and design:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Construction;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Conversion;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Acquisition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Renovation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Equipping.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Accessibility to Mobility Impaired Persons. To be eligible for a State grant under the Act, the applicant shall certify that the facility will be accessible to mobility impaired persons in accordance with all applicable federal and State laws and regulations.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Application."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. An application for a State grant shall be filed with the Secretary in the form the Secretary prescribes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Compliance with Other Requirements. The applicant shall also comply with all requirements of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Act;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>COMAR 14.24.04; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>All other applicable State and federal regulations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Submission to Board of Public Works. If the Secretary approves an application, the Secretary shall submit the application to the Board of Public Works, together with a written report of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Secretary's approval for State funds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the project also involves federal funds, the necessary approvals for those funds; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The State Clearinghouse's review and recommendations under COMAR 14.24.04.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Priority of Awards."> <text>The priority of applicants to be awarded State grants shall be established in accordance with the comprehensive plan adopted by the Secretary under Human Services Article, §9-204, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Site Acquisition and Renovation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Site Acquisition Only. If an applicant proposes to acquire a land site on which to construct a facility, the cost of the land is not eligible for State participation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Site with Improvements—State Funds Only.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Subject to §B(2) of this regulation, if an applicant proposes to acquire a site with existing improvements and will not be using any federal funds for site acquisition or renovation, total project costs, including costs applicable to the acquisition of the site and existing improvements, are eligible for State participation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>At least two State-approved appraisers shall determine the value of the site and existing improvements, and State participation shall be limited to the lesser of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The average of the approved appraisals; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The actual acquisition cost.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Site with Improvements—State and Federal Funds. If an applicant proposes to acquire a site with existing improvements and will be using both State and federal funds for site acquisition and renovation, at least two State-approved appraisers shall determine the portion of the total cost that is applicable to the land site alone. That portion shall be excluded from State participation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Completion of Work."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. Except as otherwise provided in this regulation, the recipient of a State grant shall complete all of the work for which the grant was authorized:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In the manner approved by the Secretary; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Within 2 years after receiving the State grant for that work.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Extensions or Changes.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If the grant recipient is unable to complete the work in the manner or within the time required, it shall promptly notify the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For good cause shown, the Secretary may grant a request for a change in the manner of or time for completing the work.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Insurance Requirements."> <text>Any fire or extended coverage insurance payments for damages or losses shall be applied first to the State's interest in the project.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Annual Financial Statement."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Statement Required. For each of the next 30 years after the receipt of a State grant under the Act, the facility for which the grant was made shall submit an annual certified financial statement to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The statement shall include, for the year covered:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All personnel employed and all related salaries, remunerations, retainers, and other expenses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All other persons rendering services to the facility under contract or otherwise and all related payments, fees, retainers, and other expenses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>All other expenses of the facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A schedule of rates and fees charged for services provided by the facility and all income derived from those rates and fees;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>All grants, gifts, or endowments received;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>A statement of the days of service rendered to clients;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>A certified profit and loss statement and balance sheet; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Any other supplemental information that the Secretary requires.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Verification. The facility shall make its records available to representatives of the Department and its designated agents, such as the Department of Budget and Management or the Office of Legislative Audits, for verification of its annual statements.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §§9-204 and 9-410, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Audits of Contracts and Grants"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. This chapter applies to audits required or authorized under State Finance and Procurement Article, §7-404, Annotated Code of Maryland, for private-care contracts, including grants, made by the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Additional Examinations. In addition to conducting audits under this chapter, the Secretary may also provide for periodic examinations of the accounts and records of all contractors, including grantees, receiving funds from the Department.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Periodic Audits Required."> <text>The Secretary shall provide for periodic audits of the accounts and records of all contractors providing care for juveniles.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Purpose and Scope of Audit."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. The audit shall determine whether funds were spent in accordance with the contract.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Expenditures and Revenues. The auditor shall review expenditures and revenues to determine if they are consistent with the approved budget and supported by documentation, in accordance with the contract and generally accepted accounting principles.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Amounts Due. The audit shall establish amounts due to or from the State by comparing budgeted, reported, and audited expenditures to revenues.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Basis of Final Settlement. The audit findings shall be the basis for making a final settlement of the contract.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="By Whom Conducted."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. Except as provided in §B of this regulation, the Department's Audit Division shall conduct the audits required by this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Local Governments.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Subject to §B(2) of this regulation, the Audit Division need not conduct an audit of contracts with local governments for which audits are conducted in accordance with the federal Single Audit Act, 31 U.S.C. §7501 et seq.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If audits conducted under the Single Audit Act do not satisfy the requirements of the Department, the Audit Division shall conduct such further auditing as it considers necessary under the circumstances.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="How and When Conducted."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>How. The audits shall be conducted in accordance with:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The terms of the contract; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Allowable cost guidelines of the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>When. The audits shall be performed at the intervals and in the manner approved and determined by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Audit of Subcontractor, Subgrantee."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Authority to Audit. The Audit Division may audit a subcontractor, including a subgrantee, when it is in the interest of the State to do so.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Notice to Primary Contractor. If the Department elects to audit a subcontractor, the Department shall inform the primary contractor, in writing, that the primary contractor need not audit that subcontractor as otherwise required by Regulation .10C of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Draft Audit Report."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Issuance. The Audit Division shall conduct an exit conference and issue a draft audit report after the exit conference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Additional Information. The draft report shall reflect any additional information that:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The contractor provides at the exit conference or, in accordance with §C of this regulation, after the exit conference; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Audit Division considers relevant.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Postconference Information.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>After the exit conference, the contractor may submit additional information for consideration in the draft report only if the contractor notifies the Audit Division, at or before the exit conference, of its intent to submit this information.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The additional information shall be submitted by a date mutually agreeable to the Audit Division and the contractor, but not later than 90 days after the exit conference.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Report Final Unless Reconsideration Requested. The draft report becomes final and the amounts found to be payable to or from the State become payable unless the contractor requests reconsideration in accordance with Regulation .08 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Request for Reconsideration."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>When Authorized. The contractor may request a reconsideration of the draft audit report at any time within 30 days of the mailing of the draft report.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>How Made. The request for reconsideration shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Be in writing; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Specify:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The amount at issue; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The reasons the contractor believes the draft report should not become final.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Reconsideration by Audit Committee."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If a contractor files a timely request under this regulation, the request shall be considered by an audit committee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The audit committee shall consist of:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Chief of the Audit Division or the Chief's designee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Deputy Secretary for Administration or the Deputy's designee;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The Assistant Secretary for Departmental Support or the Assistant Secretary's designee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>One or more of the other assistant secretaries or their designees.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Modification by Committee. The Audit Review Committee may:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Modify the draft report as it considers appropriate; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Reissue the report in accordance with Regulation .07 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Notice of Final Report.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If, after reviewing the contractor's original or any subsequent request for reconsideration, the Audit Review Committee finds no basis for considering further appeals, the Committee shall mail a notice of its findings to the contractor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The notice shall inform the contractor that:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Unless appealed within 30 days of the notice's mailing, the audit is final; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The contractor may appeal the Committee's decision to the Secretary or to the procurement officer in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act or the State Procurement Law, as applicable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Responsibilities of Contractor."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Disclosure of Records. Each contractor shall provide the Audit Division, during the contractor's regular business hours, full disclosure of all accounting, financial, and other records, as requested from time to time by the Audit Division.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Retention of Records. Each contractor shall retain all accounts and records relating to the contract for a period of 5 years following the close of each fiscal year.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Audit of Subcontractors. Each contractor is responsible for auditing its subcontractors in accordance with this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Receipts and Expenditures. Each contractor shall maintain detailed accounting records that include all receipts and expenditures of contract funds.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Revenues.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>All revenues received in connection with the contract shall be credited to the contract program and applied to the gross allowable expenditures of the program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>These revenues include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>All proceeds from the provision of services, including fee collections and third-party payments;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>All proceeds from the sale of goods, including all goods obtained or manufactured with labor and materials paid for with contract funds; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>All interest earned on deposited contract funds or proceeds.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>This section does not apply to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Undesignated contributions to the contractor; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Contributions designated to a specific purpose not contemplated in the contract.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-204; State Finance and Procurement Article, §7-404; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="05" heading="Program Administration"> <chapter num="01" heading="General"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Program Manager."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Required. Each facility and other program shall have:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A program manager; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A duty officer, designated by the program manager to act in the program manager's absence.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Accountability.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The program manager is accountable to the Secretary for all aspects of the program's management.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For a facility or other program operated by a private-sector provider, the nature and scope of this accountability shall be specified in the contract between the Department and the provider.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Program Description."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Each facility and other program shall develop and maintain a written document that describes the program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The document shall include an organizational chart that groups similar functions, services, and activities into administrative subunits.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Annual Review. The document shall be reviewed annually and updated as needed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Staffing Plan."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. Each facility and other program shall maintain a staffing plan that, in accordance with Departmental requirements, provides a safe, humane, and caring environment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Annual Review. The staffing plan shall be reviewed annually and updated as needed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Program Manual."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Required. Each facility and other program shall develop and maintain a manual of standard operating procedures.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Contents. The manual shall include a current copy of:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The regulations contained in this Title 16; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>All additional rules, codes of conduct, standards, policies, and procedures adopted by or for the program, consistent with law and these regulations, for its operations and maintenance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Fiscal Management."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Manager's Responsibilities. A program manager shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Recommend the program's operating budget in accordance with State and Departmental policies and practices;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Assure that the program's expenditures are within its approved budget; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Prepare budget expenditure management reports, as required by the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Fiscal Record Keeping. All fiscal records shall be kept in accordance with State and Departmental policy.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §§9-204, 9-227, 9-234, and 9-237, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Personnel Qualifications and Recruitment"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Direct-Care Staff and Specialists."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Definitions.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>In this regulation, the following terms have the meaning indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Specialist.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Specialist” means an employee assigned to a program to provide services of the sort that require specialized or advanced training in a specific field of study.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Specialist” includes:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>An addictions counselor;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>A case manager;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>A dentist;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>A dietitian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>A nurse;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vi)"> <text>A physician;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vii)"> <text>A psychiatrist;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(viii)"> <text>A psychologist;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ix)"> <text>A recreation supervisor;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(x)"> <text>A social worker; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(xi)"> <text>A teacher.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Qualifications. All direct-care staff and all specialists shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Demonstrate the potential for working with youth in program settings, as reflected by academic qualifications, personal experience, or a combination of both; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Meet the minimum qualifications, as applicable, set by:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The Department of Budget and Management;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The Maryland Correctional Training Commission; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Applicable law and regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Short-Term Contracts."> <text>The Department shall minimize the use of short-term employment contracts and shall encourage its private-sector providers to do likewise.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §§9-204, 9-227, and 9-237; Correctional Services Article §8-201 et seq.; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Training and Staff Development"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="In General."> <text>All program staff shall be trained according to the standards set for the applicable position by the Maryland Correctional Training Commission under Correctional Services Article, §8-208, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Continuing Education."> <text>In addition to complying with the training standards set by the Maryland Correctional Training Commission:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Program staff may participate in courses of study approved by the Department's Office of Professional Development; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall encourage private-sector providers to offer continuing educational opportunities for their employees to enhance their professional development.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Program Manual."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Employee Access. Each program shall make its manual of standard operating procedures accessible to all employees.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Training. All employees shall be trained in and be familiar with all of the manual's requirements, protocols, and procedures that affect their work.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Monitoring."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Program to Designate Monitor. Each facility and other program shall designate an employee to monitor and keep records on staff compliance with training and education requirements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Monitor's Duties. This employee shall notify the Program Manager of any employee whose training or continuing education is not up-to-date or whose credentials have expired.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §§9-204, 9-227, and 9-237; Correctional Services Article §8-201 et seq.; Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Code of Conduct"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Departmental Code."> <text>The Secretary shall adopt and enforce a code of conduct for personnel of the Department.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Vendor Codes."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In General. Every private vendor or other person providing services to the Department shall adopt and enforce, as a condition of its contract, grant, or other arrangement with the Department, a code of conduct that is substantially similar to the one adopted by the Secretary under Regulation .01 of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Approval by Secretary. The code of conduct shall be submitted to and approved by the Secretary before the contract, grant, or other arrangement with the Department becomes effective.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Employee Compliance."> <text>Each employee of the Department and of any public or private program shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Comply with the code of conduct applicable to the employee; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>As a condition of initial employment, acknowledge in writing that the employee has read and understands the code of conduct.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-207, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="06—15" heading="Vacant" /> <subtitle num="16" heading="Field Services"> <chapter num="01" heading="Probation and Aftercare Services and Procedures"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of these regulations is to establish, define, and control the standard of services and activities to be used in the administration of probation and aftercare procedures available throughout the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Adjudicatory hearing” means a hearing to determine whether the allegations in the petition, other than allegations that the child requires the court's assistance, treatment, guidance or rehabilitation, are true.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Aftercare” means that service which is begun by a Department of Juvenile Services counselor at the time a child is committed to a Department of Juvenile Services institution. The commitment is court ordered and shall be terminated by the court. Institutional home visits are made by an aftercare counselor during the period of commitment and supervision following release until the case is terminated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Arraignment hearing” means a court hearing at which charges are read and explained to the child and the child is advised of the child's right to legal representation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Child” means a person under 18 years old.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Commit” means to transfer legal custody.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Court” means the circuit court of a county or Baltimore City sitting as the juvenile court. In Montgomery County, it means the District Court sitting as the juvenile court.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Courtesy supervision” means case supervision accepted as a result of intrastate or interstate transfer of supervision.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Custodian” means a person or agency, other than the child's parents or legal guardian, to whom legal custody has been awarded by court order.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Delinquent act” means an act which would be a crime if committed by an adult.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Detention” means the temporary care of children placed in physically restricting facilities, for the protection of themselves or the community, while the court determines individual disposition.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>“Disposition hearing” means a court hearing to determine the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Child's need for assistance, guidance, treatment, or rehabilitation; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Nature and extent to which this assistance, guidance, treatment, or rehabilitation is offered.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>“Foster care” means the court-ordered placement of children in approved foster care homes with appropriate supportive services provided as required.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>“Individualized service plan” means the written plan which identifies the needs of the child under supervision and establishes objectives for meeting those needs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>“Institution” means those Department of Juvenile Services facilities where children are held for the purposes of secure detention or commitment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(15)"> <text>“Interstate Compact on Juveniles” means that multistate agreement provided for in Human Services Article, §9-301 et sec., Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(16)"> <text>“Juvenile counselor” means the person assigned to the court by the Department of Juvenile Services to provide probation and aftercare services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(17)"> <text>“Juvenile counselor supervisor” means those Department of Juvenile Services persons exercising line supervision over juvenile counselors. For the purpose of this document, whenever juvenile counselor supervisor is used it also means that person's designee who may exercise supervision in the supervisor's absence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(18)"> <text>“Maryland Automated Statewide Support and Information System Tools (ASSIST)” is a tracking data base used for all children referred to the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(19)"> <text>“Orientation process” means those introductory instructions to children who have been placed under supervision by the court and placed in someone's care and custody, or both.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(20)"> <text>“Petition” is a formal application for a hearing before the juvenile court, filed pursuant to the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §3-8A-13, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(21)"> <text>“Placement” means any living arrangement for a child away from the custody of the child's parents or legal guardian.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(22)"> <text>“Placement review team” means those persons designated by the regional administrator to review and approve decisions, or both, on the use of funds for purchase of care or services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(23)"> <text>“Probation” means the legal status created by a court order under which an adjudicated delinquent is subject to specified conditions of the court or Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(24)"> <text>“Purchase of Care” means that program of the Department of Juvenile Services when the children are placed in approved foster care or licensed residential child care facilities and funds are provided by the Department, parents, or public or private resources.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(25)"> <text>“Purchase of Service” means that program of the Department of Juvenile Services when nonresidential services are provided to adjudicated delinquent children.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(26)"> <text>“Regional administrator” means those Department of Juvenile Services personnel responsible for directing and administering all or some phases of court, community, and institutional services including probation and aftercare, in their assigned areas of the State. For the purposes of this chapter, whenever the term regional administrator is used it also means that person's designee who may exercise like responsibilities in the administrator's absence.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(27)"> <text>“Resource consultant” means that Department of Juvenile Services employee who is responsible for managing the Purchase of Care and Purchase of Services Programs in certain geographical areas of the State. Resource consultants are assigned by the regional administrator.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(28)"> <text>“Revocation” means that procedure related to violations of probation or aftercare when a modification of a court order is requested as provided for in the Maryland Rules of Procedure, Juvenile Causes, Rule 11-116, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(29)"> <text>“Shelter care” means the temporary care of children in physically unrestricting facilities.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(30)"> <text>“Social history investigation” means the court-ordered study of the child, the family, the environment, and other matters relevant to the disposition of the case as provided for in the Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §3-8A-17, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(31)"> <text>“Termination” means those court proceedings, initiated to complete supervision over a child as found in the Maryland Rules of Procedure, Juvenile Causes, Rule 11-120, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(32)"> <text>“Transfer of jurisdiction (proceedings)” means those proceedings and case records accompanying the transfer to the child's county of residence as provided for in Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §3-8A-06, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(33)"> <text>“Waiver investigation” means that investigation initiated by a petition in which the court may order the Department of Juvenile Services to furnish a report at the waiver hearing as provided for in the Maryland Rules of Procedure, Juvenile Causes, Rule 913(b), Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Court Services Provided by the Department of Juvenile Services."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Social History Investigation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A social history investigation ordered by the court consists of a complete documentation concerning the child, the child's family, the child's environment, and other matters relevant to the disposition of the case.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The case manager shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Interview the child/family to gather information, including a check of the child’s record in the appropriate Departmental database, and if information from other sources is required, obtain signed consent forms;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Explain the following to the child and those family members participating:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Purpose of investigation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Legal basis for gathering information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Confidentiality of the report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Scope of information to be gathered;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Who will receive and have access to the report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vi)"> <text>Role of other staff who may be involved in completion of the report;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(vii)"> <text>Interventions and treatment options available to the court;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Prepare a social history and recommendations based on the interview record and any other available information;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Secure approval signature for the social history investigation from the case manager supervisor;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Submit social history investigation to the court at least 2 working days before disposition; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Complete the investigation section on the appropriate Departmental database.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Arraignment Hearing. An arraignment hearing is the court hearing at which the charges are read and explained to the child. At this time the child is also advised of the child's right to legal representation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Waiver and Transfer Investigation Hearings and Reports.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The purpose of waiver and transfer hearings is to determine whether the juvenile or criminal court will have jurisdiction in a given case.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The reports are factual in nature and do not call for conclusions from the case manager.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The case manager shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Gather information, including a check of appropriate Departmental databases, to address the waiver and transfer criteria as provided for in Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, §3-8A-06, Annotated Code of Maryland, and Criminal Procedure Article, §4-202, Annotated Code of Maryland, respectively, and consistent with the requirements of Courts and Judicial Proceedings, §3-8A-17, Annotated Code of Maryland, in waiver cases, and Criminal Procedure Article, §4-202(e), Annotated Code of Maryland, in transfer cases;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Proceed as specified in §A(2)(d) and (f) of this regulation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>If the case is sent to the criminal system, terminate the case, or continue supervision in accordance with court requirements; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>If the case is transferred to or remains in the juvenile system, deliver the case for assignment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Disposition Hearing.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A disposition hearing determines whether the child requires the court's assistance, guidance, treatment, or rehabilitation, and, if so, the nature of the assistance, guidance, treatment, or rehabilitation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the child is to be supervised by the Department of Juvenile Services, personnel of that administration shall ensure that appropriate information is communicated for assignment purposes and, if possible, that the family is advised as to the next contact.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The case manager shall complete the disposition section on the appropriate Departmental database.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Orientation Process."> <text>Department of Juvenile Services employees shall receive, review, and assign cases to the juvenile counselor, who shall:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Open the case and complete the orientation process within 2 weeks of the date of disposition or within 2 weeks of the receipt of the court order.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Meet with the child and family (parent), guardian, or custodian as part of the orientation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Schedule a second appointment if the child and family fail to appear for the first scheduled appointment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Consult with the juvenile counselor supervisor, if the child and family fail to appear again, to plan the next steps, such as:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Sending a registered letter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Scheduling a home visit; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Advising the court.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Provide verbal and written instructions to child and family, which include:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The juvenile counselor's name and office phone number;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Explanation of probation, supervision, and placement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Review of court-ordered conditions, including restitution;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Discussion of any other conditions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Projection of anticipated length of supervision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Clarification of the status necessary for termination of supervision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Information regarding the location, time, and frequency of appointments;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Information concerning the potential consequences of failure to comply with conditions of supervision; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Name and office number of the juvenile counselor's immediate supervisor.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Answer any questions the child/family may have about supervision.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Complete, sign, and date the orientation form.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Obtain the child's/family's signatures on the orientation form. If the child or family refuse to sign, document on the form the refusal and reasons, if known.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Distribute copies of the form to the child/family and the case file and transfer the case if it is to go to another juvenile counselor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="J."> <text>Complete the supervision section on the appropriate MAJIS form.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Individualized Service Plan—Probation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Individualized Service Plan.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>This is a written plan which identifies the needs of the child under supervision and establishes objectives for meeting those needs.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>In order to accomplish the goals of the plan in §A(1) of this regulation, the juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Develop a written individualized service plan for each child on active supervision within 30 days upon the receipt of the court order.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Assess and review total case information, such as court ordered conditions and the findings and recommendations of social, educational, and evaluative material, if applicable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Gather the necessary background information to develop the individualized service plan if a social history has not been completed.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Obtain a signed release from the child/family to procure any additional information.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Meet with the child/family to identify needs including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The child's/family's intrapersonal development, especially as this pertains to their ability to assess their situation, engage in a process of problem solving, and plan for the future;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>The child's/family's interpersonal development, especially as this pertains to their ability to function adequately within socially prescribed roles, to relate to others in an acceptable manner, and to communicate effectively with others;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>The child's educational/vocational development, particularly as this pertains to the child's ability to function within age-appropriate school/work environments and to work towards meeting future educational/vocational goals; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Any other needs including emotional, intellectual, social, medical, financial, etc., particularly as these pertain to the child's/family's ability to function adequately in their community.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Evaluate the child's/family's serviceable unmet needs which can be addressed with resources available.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>With the child/family, establish service goals along with the time frames and the responsibilities of each party. These goals shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Specific and attainable;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Include both short-term and long-term objectives.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>List on the individualized service plan the service goals, steps, time frames, and responsibilities as well as court-ordered or other special conditions.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Levels of Supervision."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Level Determinations. The juvenile counselor and supervisor shall assess the individualized service plan. The assessment shall determine which level of supervision is to be provided in the case.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Levels of Supervision.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Intensive Supervision. Intensive supervision consists of at least two planned monthly face-to-face contacts with the child, designed primarily to intensively supervise/monitor the child's/family's status regarding conditions and progress towards service goals. In considering whether a child shall receive intensive supervision the juvenile counselor and juvenile counselor supervisor shall consider the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Seriousness of the offense;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Severity and chronicity of the problem behavior and its underlying causes, as determined by relevant data;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Degree of risk or reoccurrence of the problem behavior the child presents to himself and to the community; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Nature of other services being provided to the child.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Supervision. Supervision consists of at least one planned monthly face-to-face contact with the child, designed primarily to monitor/supervise the child's/family's status regarding conditions and progress towards service goals. In considering whether a child shall receive supervision the juvenile counselor and juvenile counselor supervisor shall proceed as specified in §B(1)(a)—(d) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Honor supervision consists of at least one planned monthly contact, not necessarily face-to-face. This level of supervision may be appropriate for children previously receiving more intensive service or supervision, and who are now nearing termination. Some children may need this type of supervision when placed on probation resulting from an isolated incident.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Error activated supervision (E.A.S.) requires no active supervision by the juvenile counselor. In each case selected for E.A.S. the child, the child's custodians, and any relevant service provider shall be made fully aware of their responsibility to alert the juvenile counselor of the need to activate supervision if the child needs assistance. The following apply:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>E.A.S. may be appropriate if primary services are provided regularly and intensively by other resources, such as out-of-State placements;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>In cases when all goals have been met except for final payment of restitution, courtesy supervision, or interstate compact cases, E.A.S. shall be used.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Placement/Institutional Supervision.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Placement/institutional supervision consists of two possible supervision arrangements when the child is:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Placed in a licensed or approved community-based residential placement; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Committed by the juvenile court to a Department of Juvenile Services institution.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Placement supervision by the juvenile counselor consists of regular and timely, but at least quarterly, contact as agreed upon by the juvenile counselor and the placement. It is designed to:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Monitor/supervise the child's progress and care;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Evaluate the status of the child regarding conditions and progress toward service goals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Coordinate the services delivered to the child and family; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Work towards the eventual return of the child to the child's family or community.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Institutional supervision by the aftercare counselor of the Department of Juvenile Services consists of at least monthly face-to-face contact with each child, monthly contact with parents/family and attendance at the child's periodic case reviews. It is designed to:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Build a relationship with the child and family;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Evaluate status of the parents' ability to reintegrate the child into the family when released and provide services aimed at achieving reintegration;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Develop an alternative living situation if the child is not able to return home either temporarily or permanently; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Provide information to the institutional juvenile counselor relative to the child's family and community.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Detention Reassessment. If, during the period a child is on probation or aftercare, the child is placed in detention for a subsequent offense or violation, and if the detention is more than 5 days, the juvenile counselor shall reassess the child's level of supervision. This may require a face-to-face contact with the child, or contact with the child's family, or both.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Implementation of the Individualized Service Plan."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>To implement the individualized service plan the juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Notify the child/family of the anticipated frequency of planned contact, verbally and in writing on the individualized service plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Sign the individualized service plan and secure the child's/family's signature. If the child or family refuse to sign, document on the form the refusal and reasons, if known.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Distribute the individualized service plan to the child, family, and the case file.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Set time frames for planned reassessment of the individualized service plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The juvenile counselor supervisor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Review the case folders for children supervised by juvenile counselors on at least a quarterly basis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Determine that completed and signed individualized service plans (including relevant ASSIST forms) are in the folders of each child on active supervision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Insure the completion of initial individualized service plans within 30 days of disposition or within 30 days upon the receipt of the court order.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Reassessment of the Individualized Service Plan."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Planned Reassessment.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The juvenile counselor shall reassess the individualized service plan of each child on active supervision at intervals of not longer than 90 days. The planned reassessment process shall evaluate the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Effectiveness of service delivery;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Appropriateness of the service goals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Child's adherence to court-ordered conditions; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Child's progress towards service goals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Those present at the reassessment should include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The probation/aftercare counselor;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The child;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The child's parents (if possible);</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Representatives of a placement facility for children in private placement, if applicable; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Any other relevant service providers, if applicable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Review with those present the child's situation at the time of the development of the initial individualized service plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Elicit and record information about the child's current status regarding each condition/goal of the individualized service plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Record an assessment of the child's current status as well as progress and problem areas;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Identify changes in the child's/family's needs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Identify services/resources available to meet serviceable unmet needs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Rate and record the child's overall adjustment and progress as:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Unsatisfactory,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Poor,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Fair,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Good, or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Superior;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Consider and modify the individualized service plan as appropriate to the child's current status;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Notify the child/family verbally and in writing of any changes in the individualized service plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>With the juvenile counselor supervisor, reconsider the category of direct services to be provided to the child;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Notify the child/family, verbally and in writing, of the next frequency of planned contact and the time frame for the next planned reassessment; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(k)"> <text>Secure the child's/family's signature on and distribute and file the completed reassessment document. If the child/family refuse to sign, document the refusal and reasons, if known, on the form.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Court Hearing to Provide Additional Resources.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A court hearing becomes necessary when unmet needs of the child/family cannot be provided with available resources or by modification of the individualized service plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Secure the approval of the juvenile counselor supervisor;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Proceed with a request for further hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Prepare and submit documents necessary to request a further hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Prepare and submit a memorandum to the court authority, including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Facts of the original order,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Changes in the child's status or problem areas necessitating court review,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>A description of the child's and family's view of the current situation,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>The juvenile counselor's recommendations;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Notify the child/family of a request for a further hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Appear in court with child and family;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Present to the court recommendations including:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The current status of the case,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Problems or changes in service needs which necessitated the court review, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>A plan for placement if this is recommended;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Record findings of the court in the child's file, placing a copy of the court order in the file upon receipt; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Meet with the child/family immediately following the hearing to review the results, and proceed to modify the individualized service plan as indicated.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Unplanned Reassessment.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>When there are emergencies in the situation of the child/family which necessitate immediate changes in the individualized service plan, the juvenile counselor shall conduct an unplanned reassessment of the individualized service plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Whenever possible, those present shall include the child, the child's parent or parents and any other relevant service provider. If these people are not available efforts shall be made to consult them.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>After consultation with the juvenile counselor supervisor, the juvenile counselor shall develop an implementation schedule for the unplanned reassessment or for revocation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Revocation of Probation/Aftercare.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Review.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The juvenile counselor shall review with the juvenile counselor supervisor the status of the child's case regarding the conditions of probation/aftercare and the possible need for revocation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>This review shall include a discussion of what alternatives the juvenile counselor has attempted with the child to resolve the problem, short of revocation, and the outcome of those attempts, as well as any untried alternatives which may yet be implemented.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The juvenile counselor and juvenile counselor supervisor shall also assess the degree of threat to the public safety to determine if detention or shelter care should be used.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the juvenile counselor and the juvenile counselor supervisor determine that the child needs to be detained, the juvenile counselor shall advise the court and file the necessary documents to initiate detention according to court requirements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>When approval of the juvenile counselor supervisor is received the juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Prepare necessary documents to initiate the revocation hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Secure the juvenile counselor supervisor's initials on the revocation petition;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Appear in court with the child and family on the hearing date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Present testimony during the hearing to substantiate the allegations of violations of probation and the recommendations for further action;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Record findings of the court in the child's file, placing a copy of court findings and orders, or both, in the file upon receipt;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Meet with the child/family as soon as possible after the hearing but at least within 2 weeks to review results;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Update the individualized service plan according to the reassessment, if the court has modified the court order placement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Proceed with placement procedures, if the court has ordered a commitment for placement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Proceed with institutionalization procedures if the court has committed the child to an institution; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(j)"> <text>Complete the appropriate ASSIST form based on final reassessment determination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>If there are unavoidable emergencies, the juvenile counselor supervisor shall appear on the juvenile counselor's behalf.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Purchase of Services."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The placement review team shall assess the need for specialized services through the use of the individualized service plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>If the placement review team decides to use Purchase of Service Funds, the juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Review the following data, which include:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The family's financial resources,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Insurance benefits to which the child might be entitled,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Any public or private resources which might be available to help provide the service;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Determine an appropriate professional currently under contract to Juvenile Services to provide the service with the resource consultant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Make the referral by sending the required materials to the vendor;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Give a copy of the court order to the resource consultant; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Supply adjunct case services and supervision as required, in conjunction with the service being directly provided by the vendor.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Termination of Service.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>When service is terminated, the juvenile counselor shall advise the resource consultant of the termination date.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The juvenile counselor shall be responsible for completing the treatment program/services section on the appropriate ASSIST form.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Purchase of Care."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Decisions to use these funds are to be made by the placement review team. When Purchase of Care is approved the team shall assess the need for placement through the use of the individualized service plan by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Reviewing and considering possible vendors;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Determining the appropriate use of funds.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>When Purchase of Care is approved by the team, the juvenile counsel shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Review financial resources of the family;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Review insurance benefits to which the child might be entitled;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Review any public or private resources which might be available to help provide the service;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Complete the appropriate residential care application/referral and make copies of the social and evaluation material;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Make placement referrals to those facilities which have been recommended by the placement review team by sending the residential care application/referral, along with any accompanying material which might be required, directly to the residential facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Cooperate with any preplacement process which might be required by the interested facility;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Provide supportive help to the child and family during the application process;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Notify the resource consultant of the facility in which placement is to be made and the projected date the placement is to be effected;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Arrange for any court action, hearings, or orders which might be required in connection with the proposed placement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>Prepare child and family for the placement experience;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(11)"> <text>Effect placement on the determined date;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(12)"> <text>Forward copy of the court order for care and custody to the resource consultant;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(13)"> <text>Be responsible for completion of the treatment program/services section on the appropriate ASSIST form; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(14)"> <text>Provide adjunct case services and supportive services during the course of placement.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Termination of Care. The juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Notify the resource consultant of the termination date and arrange for any necessary change in a court order; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Provide appropriate follow-up services to the child and the family according to the individualized service plan reassessment completed as a result of the child's return home.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Recommending Institutionalization."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The criteria to be used by the juvenile counselor and the juvenile counselor supervisor in recommending institutionalization for a particular child are the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Nature of the child's act or violation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Severity of the offense;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Chronicity of the behavior;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Impact of the act on the victim/community; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Child's amenability to treatment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Also to be considered in the final determination are the:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Availability and appropriateness of other resources;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Previous treatment attempted and the final results of this treatment; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Availability of less restrictive forms of intervention which would be consistent with the public safety.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Individualized Service Plan—Institution."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Time Frame. The individualized service plan shall be:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Developed by the institutional juvenile counselor; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Done in conjunction with the aftercare counselor within 30 days of the child's commitment.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The aftercare counselor's immediate responsibility is to assist in the development of the individualized service plan. The aftercare counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Immediately alert the institution by telephoning the Social Services/Tour office to advise them of a child's special medical needs, for example diabetes, seizures, suicidal risk, bed-wetting, etc.;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Within 2 working days of commitment, forward all pertinent social and evaluative material including the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Relevant ASSIST forms,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Most recent individualized service plan,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Medical consent form, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Face sheet;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Forward the material listed in §B(2) of this regulation if it did not accompany the child to the institution.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Institutional Juvenile Counselor's Responsibility. The juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Make a prompt assessment and total review of case information including:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Prior court-ordered dispositions, if any, and the findings and recommendations of social, educational, and evaluative material, if applicable; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Contacting the aftercare counselor for clarification or additional information as needed.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Meet with the child or family, or both, to identify needs including the child's:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Family intrapersonal development, especially pertaining to their ability to:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Assess their situation;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Engage in the process of problem solving; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Formulate a plan for the future.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Family interpersonal development, especially pertaining to the:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Child's ability to function adequately within socially prescribed and acceptable roles;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Ability to relate to others; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Ability to communicate effectively with others.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Educational development, particularly in the areas of the child's ability to:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Function within age-appropriate school/work environments; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Meet future educational/vocational goals.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Other needs as they pertain to the child/family ability to function adequately in their community. Among these needs are:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Emotional;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Intellectual;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Social;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Medical; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Financial.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Develop and write the individualized service plan from the information assessed, the interview with the child, and in conjunction with the aftercare counselor, and have it approved by the immediate supervisor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Evaluate the child's unmet needs which can be addressed with available resources.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Set service goals along with time frames and the responsibilities of each party, based on the evaluation, with the child/family and the aftercare counselor. These goals are to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Be specific and attainable; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Include long-term and short-term objectives.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>List on the individualized service plan the service goals, steps, time frames, and responsibilities.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Deliver direct services which may vary based on the child's needs and the individualized service plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Direct Service Role of the Aftercare Counselor. The aftercare counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Visit the child within 30 days of the commitment to the institution.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Meet with the institutionalized child face-to-face at least monthly.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Maintain monthly contact with the parent or parents to discuss:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The child's progress;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Plans for release; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Specifically their role in those plans.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Meet with the institutional staff at reviews to reassess and modify the individualized service plan.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Evaluate the child's progress toward meeting treatment goals following reviews. When necessary, the aftercare counselor shall use the individualized service plan in conjunction with the institutional juvenile counselor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Recommend a child's release consistent with the reassessment of the individualized service plan in cooperation with the institutional juvenile counselor.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Complete the community component of the release referral.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Arrange necessary court actions and procedures to effect release of the child.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>Develop at time of release a new individualized service plan according to reassessment procedures, including the initial level of supervision as follows:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Meet with the child at least once per week during the first month after release. At least one meeting is to be a home visit.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Reevaluate the level of supervision after the first month. The level shall be maintained at the intensive or supervision level as set forth in Regulation .06B(1) and (2) of this chapter.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Transfer Cases."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Interregion Courtesy Supervision.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The sending juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Discuss the case with the juvenile counselor supervisor as to the appropriateness of the transfer for courtesy supervision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Prepare the case for transfer consistent with procedures outlined in the planned assessment of the individualized service plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Prepare a summary of adjustment memorandum for courtesy supervision;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Complete the disposition and supervision sections on appropriate ASSIST forms; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Review the case record and provide copies of pertinent information, including the original information and the original assignment order and draft cover letter, to all interested parties.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The sending juvenile counselor supervisor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Review the case record for completeness and accuracy and approve it; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Send the cover letter and all pertinent material to the regional administrator or the regional administrator's designee for approval and transfer to the office of the receiving regional administrator.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The receiving juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Upon receipt of the case records from the receiving regional administrator, open the case and review the records, individualized service plan, etc.;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Send progress reports to the sending juvenile counselor in accordance with the procedures outlined in the planned reassessment of the individualized service plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Notify the sending juvenile counselor through progress reports when the case is ready for termination;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Prepare and forward the summary of adjustment memorandum to the original court through the Department of Juvenile Services recommending case termination; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Complete the disposition and supervision sections on appropriate ASSIST forms.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Proceedings for the Transfer of Jurisdiction.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>When jurisdiction has been transferred by an original court of jurisdiction the sending juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Prepare a cover letter to be sent to the receiving jurisdiction and enclose copies of any necessary materials;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Forward all material to the receiving jurisdiction including any requests/arrangements to assure case coverage during the transfer process; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Complete disposition and supervision sections on appropriate MAJIS forms.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The receiving juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Proceed with the orientation process which shall be completed within 2 weeks of receipt of the case material; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Complete the disposition and supervision sections on appropriate ASSIST forms.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Interstate Courtesy Supervision.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>This supervision is governed by the Interstate Compact on Juveniles, Human Services Article, §9-301 et seq.,Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The sending juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Complete all relevant ASSIST forms as required;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Complete all relevant Interstate Compact forms;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Forward all material to the receiving jurisdiction including any requests/arrangements to assure case coverage during the transfer process; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Maintain periodic contact with the receiving juvenile counselor to monitor and reassess the individualized service plan.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The receiving juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Complete all relevant ASSIST forms as required;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Complete all relevant Interstate Compact forms; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Abide by conditions or terms imposed by the sending counselor.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Case Termination."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Basis for Termination.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Termination is usually recommended when the child has:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Abided by all the required conditions;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Met the service goals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Demonstrated the ability to function in the community without supervision; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Reached the point where continued supervision and services does not produce any additional benefits.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>When case termination is recommended, the juvenile counselor or aftercare counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Obtain the approval of the juvenile counselor supervisor to terminate the case;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Prepare the necessary reports and documents to request termination by the appropriate court;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Submit the case to the court for consideration of termination; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Complete the termination section on the appropriate ASSIST form.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If the court denies the request to terminate, the juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Discuss the case with the juvenile counselor supervisor concentrating on the court's reason for denial;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Develop a new individualized service plan, taking the court's input into consideration;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Obtain the approval of the juvenile counselor supervisor for the new individualized service plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Notify the court of the new individualized service plan;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Update the appropriate ASSIST form; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Establish a realistic future date when the case may be resubmitted for termination.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>On Interstate Compact cases the receiving juvenile counselor shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Notify the sending juvenile counselor; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Complete the termination section on the appropriate ASSIST form.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §§9-204, 9-216, and 9-241, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: March 10, 1986 (13:5 Md. R. 544)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 10.25.09 to COMAR 14.22.09</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 14.22.09 to COMAR 16.03.01</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 16.03.01 to COMAR 16.16.01 in June, 2007</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective March 22, 2021 (48:6 Md. R. 239)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Screening and Assessment for Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Mental Retardation"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>This chapter governs the requirements for a Department of Juvenile Services intake officer to disseminate information regarding screening and assessment for mental health, substance abuse, and mental retardation.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Referral for Screening."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Upon receipt of a complaint concerning a child, and in no event not later than 25 days after receipt of a complaint, an intake officer shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Discuss with the child and the child's parent or guardian information regarding a screening for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Mental illness;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Substance abuse; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Mental retardation;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Document the discussion; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Obtain written verification from the child and the child's parent or guardian acknowledging receipt of information regarding screening for:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Mental illness;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Substance abuse; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Mental retardation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Within 15 days after the discussion with the child and the child's parent or guardian, the intake officer shall document whether the child's parent or guardian made an appointment for a screening.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Screening and Assessment."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The screening and assessment authorized by this chapter shall be conducted by an individual who:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Has been selected by the child's parent or guardian;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Has been approved, as appropriate, by the State public mental health system or the child's health insurance carrier, if any; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Is:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A qualified health, mental health, or substance abuse professional; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Staff trained by a qualified health, mental health, or substance abuse professional.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A child may consent to advice, consultation, diagnosis, and treatment as provided in Health-General Article, Title 20, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Confidentiality."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Information received by the Department of Juvenile Services or the Maryland Department of Health relating to a specific screening or assessment for mental health, substance abuse, or mental retardation conducted under this chapter is confidential and may not be disclosed to any person.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Unless otherwise prohibited by law, the Department of Juvenile Services and the Maryland Department of Health may make public non-identifying information concerning screenings or assessments for mental health, substance abuse, or mental retardation.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Amendments to Regulations."> <text>This chapter may not be amended unless the amendment is approved by both the Secretary of Juvenile Services and the Secretary of Health.</text> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Courts and Judicial Proceedings, §§3-8A-04—3-8A-17.12, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 11, 2001 (28:11 Md. R. 1054)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 16.03.02 to COMAR 16.16.02 in June, 2007</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="17" heading="Community Nonresidential Services"> <chapter num="01" heading="Youth Services Bureau"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>These regulations apply to all youth services bureaus funded by the State.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Core services” means only the following:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Individual, family, and group counseling;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Referral and information services;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Crisis intervention including activities relating to youth suicide prevention;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Substance abuse assessment and referral services; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Informal counseling.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Department” means the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Substance abuse” means alcohol and drug abuse.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Bureau” means a youth services bureau, which is a community-based nonresidential program that is established pursuant to Human Services Article, §9-233, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Program Requirements."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>General Services. Each bureau shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Provide all core services and, in accordance with particular community needs, other services;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Serve a specific catchment area, in which the bureau shall be located and which may be realigned with approval from the Department;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Provide services at convenient hours in a manner which is accessible to the community;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Promote community awareness of the bureau's services; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Make use of existing public and private services in their communities by making referrals to those services which are available and appropriate.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Core Services.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Formal Counseling.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Individual, family, and group counseling shall be considered formal counseling if counseling sessions are provided on a regularly scheduled basis for more than three sessions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Case files for each formal counseling case shall contain:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Intake material;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Progress and session notes;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Service plan; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Termination summary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Service plans shall be developed for each formal counseling case before the fourth counseling session and shall contain:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>A problem statement;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Mutually agreed upon treatment goals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iii)"> <text>Strategies used by the counselor to meet treatment goals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(iv)"> <text>Interactions with other parties when necessary to meet treatment goals; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(v)"> <text>Quarterly updates.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Information and Referral Services.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Information and referral services shall be provided to the general public or individual clients of the bureau.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The bureau shall maintain a list of available community services. The list shall include the name of the referral service, its address, and its telephone number.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The bureau shall document its provision of information and referral services.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Crisis Intervention.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Crisis intervention, including intervention relating to youth suicide prevention, shall be provided to any youth and family in the community. These services are of an emergency nature and shall be provided when the situation demands an immediate response or action by the bureau.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The type and number of crisis intervention incidents shall be documented.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Substance Abuse Assessment and Referral.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Substance abuse assessment and referral services shall be provided by bureau staff who have received substance abuse assessment and referral training from the Office of Education and Training for Addictions Services of the Maryland Department of Health or from any other entity that the Secretary of the Department determines to be qualified to provide substance abuse assessment and referral training.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The bureau shall document the number of substance abuse assessments and referrals the bureau provides.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Informal Counseling.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Individual, family, and group counseling shall be considered informal counseling if the counseling is provided on an irregular basis for three or fewer sessions.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The bureau shall document informal counseling occurrences.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Noncore Services. To the extent that a bureau provides services in addition to core services, the bureau shall identify these services, provide them through the use of appropriately trained staff or volunteers, and document the type and number of the services provided.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Monitoring and Evaluation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Eligibility for State Funding. In order to be eligible for funding from the State, a bureau shall meet the requirements set out in this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Bureau Requirements. Each bureau shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Have a valid organizational structure, including a board of directors or an advisory board;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Follow sound personnel practices and maintain complete personnel files that include for each bureau staff member:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>A job description,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>A completed criminal background check,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Evidence of the staff person's educational credentials and experience, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Annual staff evaluations;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Provide insurance coverage, as appropriate for the services provided;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Establish and maintain such fiscal control and fund accounting procedures as may be necessary to assure prudent use, proper disbursement, and accurate accounting of funds;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Meet the program requirements set out in Regulation .03 of this chapter, the information reporting and confidentiality requirements set out in Regulation .05 of this chapter, and, if the bureau charges its clients a fee for services, the fee requirements set out in Regulation .06 of this chapter;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Conduct criminal background checks for all employees and, as required by Department policy, volunteers;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Comply with the Department policy on reporting critical incident reports; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Submit to the Department an annual budget at the time the Department specifies.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Monitoring Generally. The Department may monitor the bureau by:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Conducting scheduled and unscheduled site visits;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Attending bureau board of directors or advisory board meetings;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Inspecting bureau fiscal, client case, and staff and volunteer files;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Reviewing bureau policies and procedures; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Meeting with and interviewing bureau staff, volunteers, and clients.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Compliance and Effectiveness Reports.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall issue reports which:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Determine the bureau's compliance or noncompliance with the bureau requirements; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Evaluate annually the bureau's effectiveness.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The Department shall provide the bureau with a copy of the compliance and effectiveness reports.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>If a compliance or effectiveness report indicates that the bureau's performance does not comply with the statute or these regulations, or that the bureau is ineffective, the bureau shall within 15 days of receipt of the report:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>File with the Department a plan of corrective action which addresses the concerns raised by the report and provides a timetable for compliance; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>File with the Secretary or the Secretary's designee a protest of the report or reports, providing in the protest a detailed explanation of why the report of noncompliance or ineffectiveness is unsubstantiated.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>If a bureau is determined to be ineffective or if a bureau fails to meet these eligibility guidelines for 2 years, the Department shall stop funding the bureau.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Nonexclusivity. This regulation does not limit the ability of any State or local government or agency that provides funds to a bureau from reviewing the bureau's program for compliance with the terms of the bureau's grant or contract with the State or local government or agency, and from taking any appropriate action.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Information Reporting and Confidentiality."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Information Reporting to the Department.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>For each Department client on informal supervision, protective supervision, probation, or aftercare status who is referred by the Department to the bureau, the bureau shall allow the Department access to the client's information and shall provide the Department confirmation of the acceptance of the client by the bureau. The bureau shall keep the Department informed at reasonable intervals to be determined by the Department of the client's attendance and cooperation in the bureau program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>For all formal counseling cases, excluding those clients referred by the Department, the bureau shall provide the Department with the first three initials of the client's surname, the initials of the client's first and middle names, and the client's date of birth. The bureau shall inform their formal counseling cases that the information in this subsection shall be provided to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The bureau shall obtain an appropriate release of information to comply with §A(1) and (2) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>For all bureau clients not covered by §A(1) or (2) of this regulation, the bureau shall provide non-client-identifying information, as requested, regarding program activities and statistics in the form and format approved or provided by the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Confidentiality of Records.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Bureau case records shall be stored inside a locked file cabinet. The case records shall be supervised and controlled directly by an authorized bureau staff member.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>A bureau shall allow the Department full access to client-identifying records and files of those youth described in §A(1) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Unless otherwise provided by law or regulation, access to client-identifying records and files without consent of the client shall be restricted to:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The youth who is subject of the record;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>The parent or guardian of the youth named in the record; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Members of the administrative staff of the bureau.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A bureau may maintain its case records in a manner that codes client-identifying information as specified in §A(2) of this regulation.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Individual case records shall be retained by a bureau for 5 years after services to the individual are no longer necessary. The records then shall be destroyed by incineration or shredding.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Nothing in this regulation shall be construed to affect any obligation concerning client record confidentiality that is otherwise set out in any federal or State statute or regulation.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Fees."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The bureau's board of directors may charge bureau clients a fee for services that is based upon the client's family income.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Before implementing its fee plan, the bureau shall consult with the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Fees obtained from clients may be retained by the bureau for bureau purposes.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The bureau may not assess a fee for service provision to a youth referred to the bureau by court order.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §9-233, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: August 17, 1977 (4:17 Md. R. 1299)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 10.25.02 to COMAR 14.22.02</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 14.22.02 to COMAR 16.04.01</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Preface codified as Regulation .01 Scope and Title VI Compliance codified as Regulation .02</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.11 recodified as .03—.13, respectively</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.13 repealed and new Regulations .01—.06 adopted effective December 6, 1993 (20:24 Md. R. 1865)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 16.04.01 to COMAR 16.17.01 effective June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Youth Diversion Programs"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>These regulations apply to:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Youth diversion programs currently being funded by the Department of Juvenile Services;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A program which seeks funding from the Department of Juvenile Services as a youth diversion program; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A program which is approved by the Department of Juvenile Services as a diversion program.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Purpose."> <text>The purpose of a youth diversion program is to:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Provide preadjudicatory services for alleged juvenile offenders to reduce penetration into the Juvenile Services system and decrease the likelihood for further delinquent behavior;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Provide services on a cost-free basis;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Function as advocates of youth needs;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Provide counseling (individual, family and group), referral and information services, crisis intervention, and informal counseling;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Provide, in accordance with particular community needs, tutoring, alternative leisure activities, employment assistance for older youth, community education, and other specialized services at convenient hours;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Service primarily youth from the Department of Juvenile Service' intake and the State's Attorney's Office;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Service, in accordance with the contracted number, a formal caseload, that is, those cases requiring a written referral, intake report, service plan, and sequential case documentation. In addition, a specified counselor shall be assigned and case follow-up performed.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Eligibility for Certification."> <text>A youth diversion program shall be considered eligible for certification if it meets criteria outlined under Regulations .05 and .06 of this chapter to the satisfaction of the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Fiscal Records."> <text>Youth diversion programs or the local units of government shall establish and maintain such fiscal control and fund accounting procedures as may be necessary to assure prudent use, proper disbursement, and accurate accounting of diversion funds under their control. Fiscal procedures for contractors are stated in Regulation .09 of this chapter. Diversion financial records are subject to fiscal audits by the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Services Provided by Youth Diversion Programs."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Diversion programs shall provide the following services regardless of budgetary limitations:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Individual counseling;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Family or group counseling, or both;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>General and referral information services;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Crisis intervention.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The services indicated in §A(1)—(4) of this regulation are equally important, and monitoring shall examine and equate the performance of all four services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Diversion programs should provide, within available resources, additional community-based youth services as needed in the following areas:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Tutoring;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Leisure-time activities;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Mobilizing community resources;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Drug education.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Guidelines for Youth Diversion Programs Receiving State Funds."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Nature of Services Delivered.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Youth diversion programs shall provide services in a manner which is appealing and accessible to their community. This requires flexible hours and may entail the use of an outreach approach or satellite centers, or both.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Youth diversion programs are responsible for developing and maintaining community rapport.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Programs may not systematically deny service to any groups of youths in their communities.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Programs may not be required to provide services to youth who, in the best judgment of the program staff, are in need of services beyond those which the program is capable of offering. In this case, the programs shall attempt to refer the participant to an appropriate agency for service.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Diversion programs shall maintain a listing of community services to which participants may be referred. The listing shall include at least the name of the referral service, its address, telephone number, and eligibility requirements.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Youth diversion programs shall make use of existing public and private services in their communities by referral and networking with those services which are available and appropriate. Programs shall provide the participant with whatever assistance is needed to follow through with the referral. In addition, it is the program's responsibility to follow up on each formal case referred to determine whether the service was provided by the agency to which the referral was made.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Youth diversion programs shall provide written or verbal feedback to the worker making the referral to the program regarding the acceptance of referrals. The worker shall be periodically informed of the individual's participation in the diversion program.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Internal Management and Operation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Internal management, evaluation of staff, and other aspects of the daily operations of the diversion programs are the responsibility of the program director.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Youth diversion programs shall be staffed by professionals or paraprofessionals, or both. The use of volunteers to expand services and support the paid staff is recommended.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Youth diversion programs shall maintain case record files on each formal counseling case when the youth is seen on a regular basis. Program shall maintain physical custody of case records at all times.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>The diversion program staff shall provide suitable protection for case record files. Information in these files is confidential. Accordingly, client-identifying data from case files will be released to individuals or agencies outside the program staff only if the participant has given his or her permission in writing, and then only when considered appropriate by the program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>The agency operating the youth diversion program shall have an advisory board or board of directors, or both, which is representative of youth and adult community members, agency staff, and professionals in the human services field.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>The Department of Juvenile Services shall define the specific geographical areas which the program will serve, and the programs shall make their catchment areas known to all agencies or organizations from which the program may receive referrals. Catchment areas may not be so large as to prohibit proper coverage or so small as to ignore natural boundaries. Diversion programs shall make sure, at all times, that they are adequately serving the needs of youth in their designated catchment areas before extending their services to youth outside these areas.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Diversion programs shall serve, on a priority basis, those youth and their families referred by the Department of Juvenile Services or the State's Attorney's Office, or both, for the juvenile court or as specified, according to individual contracts.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Program Accountability."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Monitoring.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The basic task involved in monitoring is to determine whether the program is providing services in compliance with the contract. The primary data collected shall be the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Number of clients served annually;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Age, sex, race, address, offense or activity which led to referral, and prior offense history, if any, for each client served; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Services which are provided to each client.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The tools used to monitor diversion programs are:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>The quarterly reporting form;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>On-site visits conducted at least once during the contract year;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Case reviews.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Irregularities indicated in the quarterly report shall be brought to the attention of the program. Additional information may be required.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Evaluation.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The basic evaluative tool to be used for determining effectiveness is the comprehensive follow-up. Data on the adjudication status of a diversion program's formal caseload will be reported at the quarter of termination, and 1 and 2 years after termination.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The extent of adjudication among the youth intensively served will be verified by examining, when possible, records retained by the Department of Juvenile Services. Records and reports from other agencies and self-reported information from youth served may be accepted also.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The method used to obtain adjudication information will be identified in the evaluative report. This evaluation shall show the effect of a program on the delinquent behavior of its participants (as measured by whether they are adjudicated). Individual diversion programs may use their own staff or field work students and volunteers to produce evaluations of a more sophisticated nature.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Data shall be collected on all services rendered. The effectiveness of some of these services is less measurable but may be important in examining the long range impact of diversion programs on juvenile behavior.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Confidentiality of Records."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The youth diversion programs shall comply with 42 CFR, Chapter 1, Subpart C, §§2.31 and 2.31-1, which is incorporated by reference.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>For purposes of monitoring, evaluation, and general accountability for the expenditure of State funds, some data will usually be in aggregate form except for those cases which are specifically referred to the programs by the Department of Juvenile Services. The Department of Juvenile Services may not require a diversion program to provide information which will identify an individual who is not already known to the Department of Juvenile Services. This identifying information will be removed or obscured in case records before their review by anyone other than diversion staff.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Fiscal Guidelines."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Youth diversion programs shall adhere to fiscal guidelines as promulgated by the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department of Juvenile Services shall reserve the right to revise its guidelines at any time without notice.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §§9-216 and 9-241, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: March 25, 1985 (12:6 Md. R. 597)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 10.25.04 to COMAR 14.22.04</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 14.22.04 to COMAR 16.04.02</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 16.04.02 to COMAR 16.17.02 effective June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="03" heading="Purchase of Care —Services" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date:</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 10.25.02 to COMAR 14.22.05</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 14.22.05 to COMAR 16.04.03</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter repealed effective December 19, 1994 (21:25 Md. R. 2109)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 16.04.03 to COMAR 16.17.03 effective June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1967)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="04" heading="Purchase of Care—Clinical Services" reason="Repealed"> <annotations> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: April 8, 1985 (12:7 Md. R. 702)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 10.25.06 to COMAR 14.22.06</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 14.22.06 to COMAR 16.04.04</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Preface recodified as Regulation .01 Scope</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01 and .02 recodified as Regulations .01 and .03, respectively</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter repealed effective December 19, 1994 (21:25 Md. R. 2109)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 16.04.04 to COMAR 16.17.04 effective June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1967)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="05" heading="Certification of Community Nonresidential Services"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Scope."> <text>These regulations apply to community nonresidential youth programs that receive funds from the Department of Juvenile Services and are not otherwise licensed or certified by the State.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Applicant” means the person, agency, or corporation applying for certification as a community nonresidential youth program under these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Certification” means approval by the Department to receive Department funds for operating a community nonresidential youth program in compliance with these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Department” means the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Program” means community nonresidential services for youth provided in an organized manner.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Certification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Application. An applicant wanting to obtain or renew a certification for a community nonresidential program shall submit a completed application and other required information to the Department in accordance with these regulations and Department policy.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Disposition of Applications. Within 30 days following receipt by the Department of a completed application, the Department shall review and evaluate for compliance with these regulations the application and other required information, inspect the program site, and either grant or deny certification of the program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Provisional Certification. The Department may issue a provisional certification to an applicant for a single period not to exceed 6 months. At the end of the provisional period, the Department shall grant or deny full certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Denial of Certification. If the Department denies an application, the Department shall formally notify the applicant and specify the reasons for the denial.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>Duration of Certification. A certification shall be valid for 2 years from the date of issuance unless terminated, suspended, or revoked before the expiration of that term.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="F."> <text>Posting of Certificate. A community nonresidential youth program for youth shall post in a prominent place the certificate issued pursuant to these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="G."> <text>Nontransferability. A certification shall be valid only for the program for which it is issued, and may not be sold, assigned, or transferred.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="H."> <text>Renewal. An application for renewal of certification shall be received by the Department not less than 45 days before the expiration of the current certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="I."> <text>Return of Certificate.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>If a program is discontinued or ceases to be operated by the entity to which the certification was issued, the certification is void and the certificate shall be returned immediately to the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If a certification is suspended or revoked, or if an application for renewal of certification is denied, the program shall return the certificate to the Department on the date of the suspension or revocation, or in the case of nonrenewal, upon expiration of the certification.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Program Requirements for Certification."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In order to meet organizational and administrative requirements, each program shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Provide a program description that defines the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Population to be served,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Services to be provided,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Goals and desired outcomes for participating youth, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Methods and techniques to be used in order to accomplish the desired outcomes;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Provide an organizational chart and a narrative describing the interrelatedness of all staff;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Provide job descriptions for all positions which indicate the required level of education and experience for each;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Maintain accounting records in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and COMAR 16.04.02 in sufficient detail so that expenditures pertaining to the operation of the program are readily identifiable;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Secure insurance coverage for potential liabilities commensurate with the services provided; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Establish a grievance procedure approved by the Department for youth in the program.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>In order to meet staff requirements, each program shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Provide a sufficient number of appropriately trained staff to fulfill the service design of the program;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Provide a personnel file for each staff member in the program which includes the following documentation:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Identifying information,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Verification of criminal background checks,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Verification that educational and experiential requirements for the position were met,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Indication of reference checks,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Verification of an initial and subsequent annual physical examination, including a TB test, which indicates that the employee is in good physical health,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Record of orientation and training,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(g)"> <text>Verification of a driver's license and insurance, when applicable,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(h)"> <text>Annual evaluation, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>Employee termination summary; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Provide a plan for the use of volunteers, including student interns, which addresses:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Selection,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Orientation,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Supervision, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Criminal background checks, when applicable.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>In order to meet service delivery requirements, each program shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Provide intake procedures;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Provide orientation to all youth entering the program and, as appropriate, the youths' families;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Provide a termination procedure for youth;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Develop a service or treatment plan for each youth in the program which includes:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Involvement of the youth, the youth's family and, when appropriate, the Department in the planning process,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Individual goals,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Expected time to accomplish the goals,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Assigned responsibilities for accomplishing the goals,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(e)"> <text>Outcome measures, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(f)"> <text>Regular review of the plan;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Maintain for each youth a record which is kept in a secure and confidential manner with limited access and is kept current, complete, and accurate;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Maintain sufficient record keeping to document all activities performed by the program;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>Ensure provision of a program designed to meet the social, emotional, and physical needs of the youth; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>Ensure that children of mandatory school attendance age who have not earned a secondary school diploma or certificate of completion and children who are eligible for special education services are provided with an educational program through the local educational agency or at the program, if the program's school holds a certificate of approval issued by the State Board of Education to operate a nonpublic education program.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>The program site shall meet applicable health and fire safety requirements and be appropriate and conducive to the activities and services to be conducted there.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="E."> <text>In order to meet the reporting requirements, each program shall:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Adhere to the requirement for reporting all cases of suspected child abuse or neglect;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Follow the Department's policy for reporting critical and emergency incidents involving staff or youth in the program;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Report to the Department client demographic information regarding service delivery and the number of youth served as required by the Department; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Notify the Department of any condition or circumstance that may affect the program's compliance with these regulations.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Program Monitoring."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Each program certified under these regulations shall be monitored by the Department to determine compliance with these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The program shall allow the Department to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Meet with staff and clients;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Observe program activities;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Review:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Fiscal information and expenditure of State funds,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Personnel records,</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>Case records, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>Administrative records and policies; and</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Verify reports submitted by the program to the Department.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Monitoring shall be conducted by the Department regularly through announced or unannounced visits.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Monitoring Reports.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The Department shall issue reports based on the monitoring of the program.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>If the Department determines that a program is not in compliance with these regulations, the Department shall issue a report that describes the areas of noncompliance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Within 15 days of receipt of the report, the program shall:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>File with the Department a plan of corrective action which addresses the concerns raised by the report and provides a timetable for compliance; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>File with the Secretary or with the Secretary's designee a protest of the report providing a detailed explanation of why the report of noncompliance is unsubstantiated.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Suspension and Revocation."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The Department may suspend for up to 6 months or revoke permanently a program's certification for failure to comply with these regulations.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>The Department shall give a program at least 15 days written notice before suspending or revoking the program's certification.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A program whose certification is suspended or revoked by the Department may appeal as provided by the Administrative Procedure Act of the State Government Article.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §§9-204 and 9-241, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 7, 1993 (20:11 Md. R. 916)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 16.04.05 to COMAR 16.17.05 effective June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle> <subtitle num="18" heading="State Operated Residential Facilities"> <chapter num="01" heading="Child Advocacy Grievance Procedure"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>“Child advocate” means an individual who works on behalf of children under Department of Juvenile Services' jurisdiction to see that their needs are met and their rights upheld through the operations of the agency.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Grievance” means a complaint due to a circumstance or action considered to be unjust.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Juvenile Services or the Secretary's designee.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Superintendent” means the chief administrative officer of an institution or a youth center.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Role of Facility Staff."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Every employee at the facility shall have the responsibility to assist any child who expresses a desire to initiate a grievance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>An employee may not retaliate against children who have filed a grievance.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Role of the Child Advoctate."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>The child advocate shall assist any child who expresses a desire to initiate a grievance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Once a child advocate has been contacted concerning a grievance, the child advocate shall assist the child until the problem has been resolved, even if the child has been transferred or released.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>The Secretary shall appoint a substitute child advocate when the grievance is filed against the child advocate.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Grievance Procedures."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Initiation of Grievance.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A child may initiate a grievance by contacting the child advocate, or requesting that a staff member contact the child advocate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The child shall initiate the grievance procedure within 5 working days of the action or incident, unless the child can satisfactorily demonstrate to the child advocate that a time extension is necessary.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Response to Grievance.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Meet with the Child. The child advocate shall respond to the grievance by meeting with the child as soon as possible to obtain the facts and attempt a prompt solution.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Grievance Against the Superintendent. If the child's grievance is against the superintendent, the Secretary, after having been notified by the child advocate, shall contact the parties involved in the grievance as soon as possible and attempt to resolve the grievance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Investigate and Mediate. Except as noted in §B(2) of this regulation, the child advocate shall contact all parties involved in the grievance as soon as possible and attempt to resolve the grievance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Confer with All Parties.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If the grievance is not resolved, the Secretary or superintendent shall confer with all parties involved.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>After hearing all parties, the Secretary or superintendent shall give a written decision.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Appeal to the Secretary.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>If the child is not satisfied with the decision of the superintendent, an appeal may be filed with the child advocate.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>After receiving an appeal from the child, the child advocate shall submit the case, in writing, to the Secretary.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(c)"> <text>The appeal shall consist of a review of all documents submitted. The Secretary may request additional information from anyone involved in the grievance.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(d)"> <text>The Secretary shall file a written decision on the appeal which shall be final and binding on all parties to the grievance.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Regulation Limitations."> <text>The grievance procedures may not:</text> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Offer an administrative hearing;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Be governed by the contested case provisions of State Government Article, Annotated Code of Maryland; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Include decisions made through the Department of Juvenile Services Disciplinary Appeals Process.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Article 83C, §2-118, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: November 4, 1985 (12:22 Md. R. 2105)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 10.25.07 to COMAR 14.22.07</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulations .01—.10 repealed and new Regulations .01—.05 adopted effective January 23, 1989 (16:1 Md. R. 71)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 14.22.07 to COMAR 16.05.01</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 16.05.01 to COMAR 16.18.01 effective June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> <chapter num="02" heading="Limits on Use of Restraints and Seclusion; Prohibition of Abuse"> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Definitions."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>Terms Defined.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>Abuse.</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>“Abuse” means:</text> <paragraph num="(i)"> <text>The physical injury of a youth by any employee under circumstances that indicate the youth's health or welfare is significantly harmed or at risk of being significantly harmed; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(ii)"> <text>Sexual abuse of a youth, whether or not physical injuries are sustained.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>“Abuse” does not include providing a youth with nonmedical religious remedial care and treatment recognized by State law.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>“Department” means the Department of Juvenile Services.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>“Duty officer” means the individual designated by the superintendent to make decisions during the superintendent's absence or when the superintendent is unavailable.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>“Employee” means any Department employee or any volunteer providing direct or indirect services to a youth in a facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>“Facility” means a residential program operated and managed by the Department.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>“Locked door seclusion” means the placement of a youth in a locked individual room, separate from the youth's room, where a youth is kept for a period of time.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(7)"> <text>“Restraint” means a mechanical device or a chemical agent which, when used, limits movement of a youth's body or temporarily disables the youth.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(8)"> <text>“Sexual abuse” means any act that involves sexual molestation or exploitation of a youth by an employee and includes incest, rape, or a sexual offense in any degree, sodomy, and unnatural or perverted sexual practices.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(9)"> <text>“Superintendent” means the individual who manages a facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(10)"> <text>“Youth” means any individual under care in a facility.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Prohibition of Abuse."> <text>Acts of abuse at a facility are prohibited.</text> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Use of Locked Door Seclusion."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A facility employee may not place a youth in locked door seclusion as punishment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A facility employee may place a youth in locked door seclusion only:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>When it is clearly necessary to protect the youth or other individuals or to prevent escape; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>After less restrictive methods have been tried or cannot reasonably be tried.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>Time Limitations.</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A youth may not remain in locked door seclusion more than 24 hours without the review and approval of the superintendent or the duty officer, who shall provide a written explanation for the decision. If one of these administrators was involved in the incident, the other one makes the determination.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>After the decision has been made to keep a youth in locked door seclusion for more than 24 hours, the youth shall be seen by the superintendent or the duty officer at least once during each 12-hour period.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The maximum stay in seclusion as a result of a single incident may not exceed 72 hours, unless a declared written emergency is issued by the superintendent.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="D."> <text>Release. A youth shall be released from locked door seclusion when the youth no longer fits the criteria for placement in locked door seclusion.</text> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Use of Restraints."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>A facility employee may not apply any restraint to a youth as punishment.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A facility employee may apply restraints to a youth only for:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The protection of the youth or other individuals;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Secure transportation; or</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The prevention of escape.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Facility Policy."> <paragraph num="A."> <text>Use by an employee of locked door seclusion or restraint is governed by the policy applicable to the facility.</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="B."> <text>A facility's policy shall address a youth's right to:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>A hearing before an impartial hearing officer;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>Advance written notice of the:</text> <paragraph num="(a)"> <text>Date, time, and location of the hearing, and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(b)"> <text>Availability and name of a child advocate;</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>Be heard and present witnesses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>Confront adverse witnesses;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(5)"> <text>Appeal the decision; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(6)"> <text>Expungement of the records from the youth's file if the youth prevails at the hearing.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> <paragraph num="C."> <text>A facility's policy, based upon the facility's physical structure and personnel, shall describe:</text> <paragraph num="(1)"> <text>The permissible locations for locked door seclusion;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(2)"> <text>The supervision that shall be provided when locked door seclusion or restraints are used;</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(3)"> <text>The services or treatment considered appropriate as a result of a youth's conduct; and</text> </paragraph> <paragraph num="(4)"> <text>A process for releasing a youth from locked door seclusion or restraints.</text> </paragraph> </paragraph> </regulation> <annotations> <annotation type="Authority">Human Services Article, §§9-226—9-229, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: June 22, 1992 (19:12 Md. R. 1136)</annotation> <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Chapter recodified from COMAR 16.05.02 to COMAR 16.18.02 effective June 18, 2007 (34:12 Md. R. 1067)</annotation> </annotations> </chapter> </subtitle>