Purpose

The purpose of 103 CMR 491.00 is to establish rules and procedures governing the filing and resolution of inmate grievances. It is the policy of the Department of Correction (Department) that every individual committed to its custody shall have access to an internal grievance mechanism that provides a forum for the fair and impartial resolution of legitimate inmate complaints. The inmate grievance process is a non-adversarial administrative process which promotes problem resolution and provides inmates with a means to address their concerns in a responsible manner, thus enhancing skills for successful reentry. The grievance process also provides Department administrators with a vital management tool by enhancing awareness of developing trends and specific problems, thus providing an opportunity to improve institutional functions affecting the prison environment. 103 CMR 491.00 is not intended to confer any procedural or substantive rights or any private cause of action not otherwise granted by state or federal law.