Washington Administrative Code Title 138 - Corrections Ombuds, Office of the
Overview
WAC Title 237 governs the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in Washington state, focusing on the rules and procedures related to geographic names as overseen by the Board and Committee on Geographic Names.
The Board and Committee on Geographic Names is responsible for the official naming of geographic features within the state, ensuring consistency, historical accuracy, and cultural respect in place names.
Purpose and Authority
The Board and Committee on Geographic Names operates under the authority of the Department of Natural Resources.
Its role is to review, approve, and maintain official names for natural and man-made geographic features in Washington State.
The naming process is intended to avoid duplication, confusion, and to honor historical, cultural, and environmental significance.
Key Functions of WAC Title 237
1. Structure and Composition of the Board and Committee
The code defines who sits on the Board and Committee, typically including:
Representatives from the Department of Natural Resources.
Members from other state agencies, such as historical commissions, Native American tribes, and local governments.
The Board usually includes experts in geography, history, and local culture.
Terms of membership, appointment process, and responsibilities are set out.
2. Geographic Naming Procedures
WAC Title 237 outlines the procedures for proposing, reviewing, and approving geographic names.
Anyone (citizens, government agencies, tribes, organizations) can submit proposals for new names or name changes.
The Board evaluates proposals based on:
Historical usage.
Local support.
Avoidance of duplicate or confusing names.
Cultural and environmental appropriateness.
Proposals undergo a public comment period to allow community input.
The Board makes the final decision on whether to approve, reject, or modify a proposed name.
3. Types of Geographic Features Covered
The Board’s jurisdiction includes:
Natural features like rivers, lakes, mountains, valleys.
Man-made features like towns, parks, trails, and other landmarks.
Names apply to both existing unnamed features and those needing name corrections or standardization.
4. Consultation with Native American Tribes
A key part of the process is consulting with federally recognized tribes.
The Board considers indigenous place names and cultural heritage.
Encourages the preservation and restoration of traditional tribal names where appropriate.
5. Maintenance of Official Records
The Board maintains an official register of all approved geographic names.
Ensures names are used consistently in maps, signage, and government documents.
Coordinates with federal agencies like the U.S. Board on Geographic Names to align state and federal naming standards.
6. Appeals and Amendments
There is a process for appealing decisions made by the Board.
Provisions exist for correcting errors or updating names as necessary.
Summary
WAC Title 237 formalizes the role of the Department of Natural Resources’ Board and Committee on Geographic Names in managing the naming of geographic features across Washington State. Its goals include:
Providing a clear, fair process for naming places.
Respecting local history, culture, and especially tribal heritage.
Avoiding duplication and confusion in geographic names.
Maintaining official records to ensure consistent use.
This system helps preserve Washington’s geographic heritage while ensuring that maps, documents, and signage are accurate and culturally respectful.
If you want, I can explain specific parts like the naming proposal process, tribal consultation, or the structure of the Board. Would you like more details?
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Washington Administrative Code Title 138 - Corrections Ombuds, Office of the
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Absolutely! Here’s a detailed explanation of Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 138 — Office of the Corrections Ombuds:
Overview
WAC Title 138 establishes the rules, duties, and operations of the Office of the Corrections Ombuds (OCO) in Washington State. This office is an independent agency created to provide oversight and address complaints regarding the state’s correctional facilities and their administration.
The Corrections Ombuds serves as a neutral party who investigates complaints from incarcerated individuals, their families, and others, ensuring transparency and fairness in the corrections system.
Purpose and Authority
The Office of the Corrections Ombuds operates independently from the Department of Corrections (DOC).
Its mission is to provide a safe, impartial, and accessible way for people to raise concerns about the treatment of incarcerated individuals and the operations of correctional institutions.
The Ombuds has authority to review complaints, investigate issues, and recommend changes to improve conditions and policies.
Key Functions and Provisions in WAC Title 138
1. Jurisdiction and Scope
The Ombuds investigates complaints related to the:
Washington State Department of Corrections.
Community corrections programs.
Juvenile rehabilitation facilities.
Other entities involved in the confinement or supervision of offenders.
Complaints can come from incarcerated individuals, their families, staff, or members of the public.
2. Complaint Process
WAC Title 138 defines how complaints are received, logged, and processed.
Complaints must generally be submitted in writing, but the office may also accept verbal complaints.
The Ombuds reviews complaints for jurisdiction and relevance.
When appropriate, the Ombuds investigates by interviewing complainants, staff, reviewing records, and inspecting facilities.
3. Investigation Authority
The Ombuds has the right to:
Access correctional facilities.
Interview inmates and staff confidentially.
Review documents and records pertinent to complaints.
Investigations are conducted impartially, respecting confidentiality and due process.
4. Reporting and Recommendations
After investigations, the Ombuds issues findings and may recommend corrective actions to the DOC or other agencies.
The office submits annual reports to the governor, legislature, and the public summarizing complaints received, investigations conducted, and systemic issues identified.
The Ombuds promotes transparency and accountability in the corrections system.
5. Confidentiality and Protections
The identity of complainants is protected to prevent retaliation.
Staff and inmates who cooperate with the Ombuds are safeguarded from adverse actions.
The Ombuds operates under strict confidentiality rules regarding sensitive information.
6. Collaboration and Referral
If complaints fall outside the Ombuds’ jurisdiction, the office refers them to the appropriate agency or entity.
The Ombuds collaborates with the Department of Corrections and other agencies to resolve issues.
It also works to educate incarcerated individuals and families about their rights and complaint options.
7. Limitations
The Ombuds does not have authority to enforce laws or impose penalties.
Its power is primarily advisory—aimed at influencing policy and practice through recommendations.
The office cannot intervene in pending legal proceedings but may provide information relevant to such cases.
Summary
WAC Title 138 establishes the Office of the Corrections Ombuds as an independent watchdog and advocate for fairness within Washington’s correctional system. It provides:
A confidential and accessible way to raise complaints about correctional institutions.
An impartial investigation process to address concerns about treatment, conditions, or policies.
Recommendations to improve the safety, fairness, and transparency of correctional facilities.
Annual public reporting to foster accountability.
The office plays a crucial role in protecting the rights and dignity of incarcerated individuals while promoting systemic improvements in Washington’s corrections system.
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