[Code of Federal Regulations]

[Title 28, Volume 2]

[Revised as of July 1, 2005]

From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access

[CITE: 28CFR548.16]



[Page 635]

 

                    TITLE 28--JUDICIAL ADMINISTRATION

 

           CHAPTER V--BUREAU OF PRISONS, DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

 

PART 548_RELIGIOUS PROGRAMS--Table of Contents

 

    Subpart B_Religious Beliefs and Practices of Committed Offenders

 

Sec. 548.16  Inmate religious property.



    (a) Inmate religious property includes but is not limited to 

rosaries and prayer beads, oils, prayer rugs, phylacteries, medicine 

pouches, and religious medallions. Such items, which become part of an 

inmate's personal property, are subject to normal considerations of 

safety and security. If necessary, their religious significance shall be 

verified by the chaplain prior to the Warden's approval.

    (b) An inmate ordinarily shall be allowed to wear or use personal 

religious items during religious services, ceremonies, and meetings in 

the chapel, unless the Warden determines that the wearing or use of such 

items would threaten institution security, safety, or good order. Upon 

request of the inmate, the Warden may allow the wearing or use of 

certain religious items throughout the institution, consistent with 

considerations of security, safety, or good order. The Warden may 

request the chaplain to obtain direction from representatives of the 

inmate's faith group or other appropriate sources concerning the 

religious significance of the items.

    (c) An inmate who wishes to have religious books, magazines or 

periodicals must comply with the general rules of the institution 

regarding ordering, purchasing, retaining, and accumulating personal 

property. Religious literature is permitted in accordance with the 

procedures governing incoming publications. Distribution to inmates of 

religious literature purchased by or donated to the Bureau of Prisons is 

contingent upon the chaplain's granting his or her approval.



[60 FR 46486, Sept. 6, 1995, as amended at 62 FR 44836, Aug. 22, 1997]