41-2804.01. Religious services advisory committee; appointment; duties; religious programs

A. The director shall establish a religious services advisory committee to consist of nine members, no fewer than six of whom shall be representatives of the religious community.

B. The director shall appoint the committee members, who shall serve at the director's pleasure. The chaplains employed by the department and the members of the religious services advisory committee shall make recommendations regarding appointments to the committee. Committee members shall not receive compensation.

C. The religious services advisory committee shall meet at least quarterly and shall submit quarterly progress reports and recommendations to the director.

D. The religious services advisory committee shall advise the director regarding the provision of religious programs to all youth in secure care facilities who desire the services.

E. The department shall make available religious programs that accommodate the religious faiths held by youth in secure care facilities as long as the programs would not interfere with the safety or security of the facility, staff or youth.

F. Participation in religious programs shall be available to all youth in secure care facilities. Participation in religious programs by committed youth shall be strictly voluntary. No youth shall be coerced to participate in religious programs nor shall any effort be made to coerce any youth to adopt or change any religious affiliation or beliefs.