INTRODUCTION

A. This chapter provides minimum standards for public and private correctional facilities throughout the state established and operated for the detention and confinement of persons detained or confined according to law except to the extent that they are inspected or licensed by other state regulating agencies. Facilities may request technical assistance from the department in determining whether they are eligible for a variance to a specific standard under this chapter. B. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent the establishment of job descriptions, work assignments, channels of communication, or personnel policies with merit systems or collective bargaining agreements.