The secretary shall manage the department of corrections and shall be responsible for the administration of adult correctional programs, including but not limited to the operation of all state correctional institutions or facilities used for the confinement of convicted felons. In addition, the secretary shall have broad powers to enter into agreements with any federal agency, any federally recognized tribe, or any other state, or any Washington state agency or local government providing for the operation of any correctional facility or program for persons convicted of felonies or misdemeanors or for juvenile offenders. Such agreements for counties with local law and justice councils shall be required in the local law and justice plan pursuant to RCW 72.09.300. The agreements may provide for joint operation or operation by the department of corrections, alone, for by any of the other governmental entities, alone. The secretary may employ persons to aid in performing the functions and duties of the department. The secretary may delegate any of his or her functions or duties to department employees, including the authority to certify and maintain custody of records and documents on file with the department. The secretary is authorized to promulgate standards for the department of corrections within appropriation levels authorized by the legislature.

Pursuant to the authority granted in chapter 34.05 RCW, the secretary shall adopt rules providing for inmate restitution when restitution is determined appropriate as a result of a disciplinary action.

Finding—2022 c 254: See note following RCW 72.09.015.

Findings—Intent—Construction—Effective date—2020 c 318: See notes following RCW 72.68.110.

Effective dates—1999 c 309 ss 927-929, 931, and 1101-1902: See note following RCW 43.79.480.

Severability—Effective date—1999 c 309: See notes following RCW 41.06.152.

Purpose—Captions not law—1991 c 363: See notes following RCW 2.32.180.