Michigan Administrative Code Department - Corrections
Here’s a detailed overview of the Michigan Administrative Code provisions relating to the Department of Corrections, specifically the Bureau of Correctional Facilities and its standards for jails and lockups:
📜 Scope & Authority
Rules are promulgated by the Department of Corrections by statutory authority (MCL §§ 45.16a; 791.262; 16.377) covering county jails and lockups, numbered R 791.701–R 791.749 (michigan.gov).
The current compilation is up to Volume 25‑4, effective March 15, 2025 (regulations.justia.com).
✅ Key Rule Highlights (R 791.701–R 791.749)
🔹 R 791.701 – Definitions
Clarifies terms like department, director, facility, detoxification cell, etc. (michigan.gov)
🔹 Safety, Security & Training
R 791.702–703: Staff must receive firearms and chemical agent training before duty (michigan.gov).
R 791.704–710: Requirements for clear exits, fire safety, alarms, inspections, and evacuation procedures (michigan.gov).
R 791.737: Safety and maintenance of equipment/buildings (michigan.gov).
🔹 Inmate Welfare & Services
R 791.705, R 791.728–732: Procedures for medical treatment, health screenings and appraisals within 14 days (michigan.gov).
R 791.719–723: Dietary standards, special diets, and food service inspections (michigan.gov).
R 791.726–727: Waste disposal and pest control policies .
🔹 Use of Force & Inmate Rights
R 791.706: Force limited to lawful defense/escape prevention, documented and reviewed after use (michigan.gov).
R 791.718: Inmate rights protected—no abuse, corporal punishment, harassment, property damage .
🔹 Facilities & Supervision
R 791.734–735: Standards for detox and holding cells, including constant supervision (michigan.gov).
R 791.736: Staffing mandates—minimum one corrections officer per occupied floor/security area; continuous staffing at holding/detox cells (regulations.justia.com).
🔹 Security Classification
Beyond jails, the Executive Bureau rules (R 791.4401) define security classifications (Levels I–VI, community status) based on risk, need, and committee review (law.cornell.edu).
🗃️ Where to Access & Stay Updated
Justia/Law Cornell offers searchable versions current through March 15, 2025 (regulations.justia.com).
The Michigan LARA Administrative Rules Division maintains definitive, current text via the state website; it's recommended to consult their portal for updates (michigan.gov).
Changes and regulatory plans are reviewed annually; last known rulework program highlights were from 2019–2020, with no major rescissions noted (legislature.mi.gov).
🛠️ Summary Table
| Topic | Rule Range | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Definitions | R 791.701 | Standard definitions for department/facility roles |
| Fire & Emergency Safety | R 791.702–715 | Training, exits, alarms, fire drills, disaster evacuation |
| Medical & Health Care | R 791.705, 728–732 | On-site healthcare access, screenings, appraisals, healthcare personnel standards |
| Living Conditions | R 791.719–727 | Nutrition, sanitation, waste & pest control |
| Use of Force | R 791.706 | Force only as needed, with documentation |
| Inmate Rights | R 791.718 | Protection from abuse or unfair treatment |
| Supervision & Staffing | R 791.734–736 | Continuous supervision in secure cells, proper staffing levels |
| Building Maintenance | R 791.737 | Safe building and equipment upkeep |
| Classification Levels | R 791.4401 | Custody-level determination and classification process |

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