Department of corrections policies and procedures

The Policies and Procedures provided here are unofficial versions and are intended for informational purposes only.
They are provided by the Department as a service to the public.
They are subject to change at any time and do not include:

Department of Corrections policies will promote professionalism, efficiency, and consistency to achieve the purpose and philosophy of the department.
All employees, contract staff, and volunteers will have access to and be responsible for understanding and complying with all policies.

1.1.1. 1.1.1.
The Authority of the Secretary of Corrections to direct the operation of the Department of Corrections is established by Sections 201, 206, 506, and 901-B of the Administrative Code of 1929, 71 P.S. §§61, 66, 186, and 310-1, Act of April 9, 1929, P.L. 177, No. 175, as amended.
II.

“The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections operates as one team, embraces diversity, and commits to enhancing public safety.
We are proud of our reputation as leaders in the corrections field.

References provide background and sources behind the policy and serve as supporting documentation

A policy is not official until it is formally issued with a signature and a date

General correctional policies can be approved by the agency CEO or administrator

Well-written policies and procedures inform and govern staff behavior, set clear expectations, and support professional behavior

Policies need to have defensible rationale, such as "legitimate correctional outcomes," prevailing standards, or specific case law, and must be officially approved and issued