SECTION 380.9520. Cooling-Off Period for Youth Out of Control

(a) Purpose. This rule provides for the temporary segregation of a youth as a cooling-off time when he or she appears to have temporarily lost control of behavior. The segregation is intended to allow the youth time to regain self-control. Segregation addressed in this rule is not a disciplinary consequence and is generally in a location near the activity in process.

(b) General Restrictions.

(1) Either staff or the youth may request the youth's removal from an activity. The youth's group may not request the youth's removal.

(2) The youth may be removed to any room in the same building away from the regular activity. Doors must not be locked.

(3) The reason for the segregation is explained to the youth and he/she is given the opportunity to explain his/her behavior.

(4) The youth must be joined by staff every 15 minutes for counseling.

(5) The youth may assist in determining his/her readiness to resume regular activity.

(c) Institutions. Segregation is limited to 90 minutes. If the youth is unable to regain control after 90 minutes, staff should take other measures.

(d) Halfway Houses.

(1) Segregation is limited to 90 minutes. If the youth is unable to regain control after 90 minutes, staff should take other measures.

(2) Youth may not be segregated to their bedrooms.

Source Note: The provisions of this §380.9520 adopted to be effective September 1, 2009, 34 TexReg 5554; transferred effective June 4, 2012, as published in the Texas Register June 22, 2012, 37 TexReg 4639; amended to be effective October 1, 2015, 40 TexReg 6138; amended to be effective May 19, 2023, 48 TexReg 705