Purpose and Scope

109 CMR 7.00 establishes regulations governing the granting of passes for youth committed to the Department of Youth Services who are placed in secure programs. (1) Passes are to be utilized to support graduated re-entry to the community consistent with the youth's treatment plan, to allow the youth increasing levels of self-management and aid in the youth's successful transition to the community. (2) DYS shall have a policy that sets forth the eligibility criteria for passes and outlines the approval processes required for the granting of passes. (3) DYS may authorize passes when youth committed to the Department are eligible and approved for passes in accordance with the policy in 109 CMR 7.01(2). (4) The policy in 109 CMR 7.01(2) shall be approved by the Commissioner and reviewed annually by the Department in light of best practices.