Administrative Rules of Montana Department 20 - CORRECTIONS
Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM)
Department 20 — Corrections
Overview:
Montana’s Department 20 covers the rules and regulations governing the state correctional system, including prisons, community corrections, probation and parole, inmate management, and rehabilitation programs. The rules aim to ensure safety, security, rehabilitation, and compliance with state and federal law while protecting the rights of inmates, staff, and the public.
1. Definitions and General Provisions (ARM 20.1.101 – 20.1.150)
Key points:
Provides key definitions, including:
Inmate: any person committed to a correctional facility.
Community corrections: programs supervising offenders outside secure facilities.
Parole and probation authorities: agencies managing offenders in the community.
Clarifies the scope and authority of the Department of Corrections, covering all adult and juvenile correctional programs, facilities, and staff responsibilities.
Emphasizes compliance with federal, state, and constitutional laws.
Why it matters:
Defines the legal framework and jurisdiction for Montana’s correctional system, ensuring clarity for staff, inmates, and external agencies.
2. Correctional Facility Operations (ARM 20.2.201 – 20.2.280)
Key points:
Governs daily operations in correctional facilities, including:
Intake, classification, and housing assignments based on security levels.
Inmate rights and responsibilities.
Procedures for disciplinary actions and grievance processes.
Requires facilities to maintain safety, order, and security while respecting inmate rights.
Specifies staff responsibilities, including security, health care oversight, and rehabilitation programming.
Why it matters:
Ensures that correctional facilities operate safely and fairly, balancing institutional security with inmate welfare.
3. Probation and Parole Rules (ARM 20.3.301 – 20.3.380)
Key points:
Establishes rules for supervising offenders in the community:
Conditions for parole and probation.
Reporting requirements and electronic monitoring.
Procedures for violations and potential revocations.
Parole and probation officers are responsible for risk assessment, monitoring compliance, and supporting rehabilitation.
Specifies the hearing process for offenders who violate conditions.
Why it matters:
Maintains public safety while providing structured opportunities for rehabilitation.
4. Inmate Programs and Rehabilitation (ARM 20.4.401 – 20.4.470)
Key points:
Rules for educational, vocational, and therapeutic programs for inmates:
Mandatory or voluntary participation depending on classification.
Programs designed to reduce recidivism and promote successful reentry.
Specifies procedures for program assignment, monitoring, and evaluation.
Encourages partnerships with community organizations for transitional support.
Why it matters:
Focuses on rehabilitation and reintegration, not just punishment, improving long-term outcomes.
5. Inmate Health and Safety (ARM 20.5.501 – 20.5.550)
Key points:
Requires correctional facilities to provide:
Medical and mental health care.
Safety protocols, including emergency procedures and violence prevention.
Sanitation and nutrition standards.
Staff are responsible for monitoring health, safety, and welfare of inmates.
Establishes reporting mechanisms for incidents, injuries, or medical neglect.
Why it matters:
Ensures basic human rights and safety standards for incarcerated individuals.
6. Administrative Hearings and Grievances (ARM 20.6.601 – 20.6.660)
Key points:
Inmates have the right to file grievances related to:
Disciplinary actions.
Conditions of confinement.
Denial of services or programs.
Provides procedures for administrative hearings, including timelines, documentation, and appeals.
Ensures staff decisions are reviewable and transparent, upholding due process.
Why it matters:
Protects inmate rights while maintaining order and accountability within facilities.
7. Use of Force and Security Protocols (ARM 20.7.701 – 20.7.740)
Key points:
Governs the circumstances under which staff may use force:
Self-defense, defense of others, preventing escapes, or maintaining order.
Emphasizes minimal necessary force and proper documentation.
Establishes security protocols including searches, contraband control, and emergency response.
Requires staff training and periodic review of force incidents.
Why it matters:
Protects safety for both staff and inmates while reducing unnecessary risk or liability.
8. Training and Professional Standards (ARM 20.8.801 – 20.8.850)
Key points:
Staff are required to complete mandatory training in areas such as:
Security procedures.
Mental health awareness and crisis intervention.
Ethical standards and professional conduct.
Continuing education ensures staff remain current with best practices and legal requirements.
Why it matters:
Ensures a competent, ethical, and professional workforce, improving safety, efficiency, and rehabilitation outcomes.
✅ Summary of Key Rule Areas
| Rule Section | What It Regulates | Core Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 20.1.101–150 | Definitions & scope | Establishes legal framework and authority |
| 20.2.201–280 | Correctional facility operations | Safety, order, inmate rights |
| 20.3.301–380 | Probation & parole | Supervision and compliance in the community |
| 20.4.401–470 | Inmate programs | Rehabilitation and reintegration |
| 20.5.501–550 | Inmate health & safety | Medical care, safety, and welfare |
| 20.6.601–660 | Administrative hearings | Grievances, due process, and appeals |
| 20.7.701–740 | Use of force & security | Safety protocols and minimal necessary force |
| 20.8.801–850 | Training & standards | Competent and professional staff |
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