(a) Normal visitation days are:
- (1) Each Saturday and Sunday; and
- (2) Major holidays.
(b)
- (1) The facility or program shall provide two (2) eight-hour visitation days per week.
- (2) Visitation for youth is up to two (2) hours per each visitation.
(c) Special visitation may be provided to accommodate visitors with special circumstances including without limitation:
- (1) Long-distance travel requirements;
- (2) Parent work schedules that preclude visiting during normal hours; or
- (3) Bereavement.
(d)
- (1) Visitations are limited to four (4) guests.
- (2) However, accommodations for large families, step-families, etc., shall be made on a case-by-case basis.
(e)
- (1) If there is a compelling risk, visitation may be denied or terminated.
(2) This may include circumstances in which the youth is:
- (A) Exhibiting out-of-control behavior;
- (B) Engaging in violence or threatening violent conduct; or
- (C) Engaging in misconduct during visitation.
(f)
- (1) Parents or legal guardians shall be notified prior to a visitation if it has been determined that a youth will not participate in a normal visitation schedule.
- (2) An alternate location and time will be provided to the parent or legal guardian to allow them the opportunity to visit.
(g)
- (1) The facility shall post the visitation rules and procedures in English and Spanish on a central bulletin board in the visitation area.
- (2) Facility staff shall assist non-English speaking individuals to understand posted rules, as needed.
(3) The visitation rules shall:
- (A) Address all pertinent issues, including without limitation:
(i) Visitation days and hours;
(ii) Required identification;
(iii) Visitor dress code;
- (iv) Prohibited contraband;
- (v) Items authorized in visitation area; and
- (vi) Expected demeanor of visitors; and
- (B) Be sent with the admission letter to each youth’s parents or legal guardian and include the grievance process.
(h)
- (1) Adequate space shall be provided for visitation.
(2) Outdoor visitation may be allowed if safety and weather permit.
- (i) The Division of Youth Services Family Advocate shall:
- (1) Encourage family participation in visitation; and
(2) Provide in the division family welcome packet:
- (A) The division parent handbook;
- (B) A division quarterly family newsletter; and
- (C) An annual calendar of all quarterly family day events.