Sec. 12.02.19.05. Compassionate Leave

A. Policy. Notwithstanding a provision of this regulation, the Commissioner and those the Commissioner authorizes shall retain the absolute discretion to modify, suspend, or terminate this program in whole or in part for a reason or no reason. Similarly, the Commissioner or designees retain the discretion to terminate the participation of an inmate in this program at any time for a reason or no reason.

B. Procedure.

(1) Compassionate leave may be authorized for the purpose of allowing an inmate to visit a member of the inmate's immediate family who is seriously ill, or to attend the funeral of a member of the inmate's immediate family. An inmate:

(a) May visit a funeral home to view the bier;

(b) Classified to the prerelease security level may attend the funeral service.

(2) Each warden shall ensure that a compassionate leave is requested on the inmate leave request and authorization form.

(3) Each warden shall ensure that the inmate leave request and authorization form is verified by appropriate institutional staff.

(4) A compassionate leave shall be approved by the warden or facility administrator with the concurrence of the Commissioner or duty officer.

(5) The warden shall establish security requirements for compassionate leave.