General Provisions
Effective May 18, 2009MGL c. 124, § 1(c), (d) and (q) MGL c. 127, § 1A MGL c. 127, § 1BMassachusetts Department of Correction
(1) Written policy and procedure shall provide that inmate programs and services be available and include, but not be limited to, the following:
- (a) social services;
- (b) religious services;
- (c) recreation and leisure time activities;
- (d) library services; and,
- (e) educational/vocational services and counseling.
(2) Written policy and procedure shall govern inmate services and programs, and shall include the following provisions:
- (a) eligibility criteria for programs;
- (b) identification and use of available community resources;
- (c) provision that inmates have the option to refuse to participate in facility programs, except work assignments, adult basic education and other programs required by statute;
- (d) refusals to participate in required programs shall be documented in writing and shall not prejudice an inmate for future participation; and,
- (e) when incarcerated within the same facility, males and females shall have equal opportunities for participation in programs and services.