Administrative Directive 04.01.115 - Administrative Review Board Proceedings (Illinois DOC)

Illinois DOC Administrative Directive 04.01.115, effective 7/1/2026 and superseding the 9/1/2023 version, governs the Administrative Review Board, the final stage of the Illinois grievance system. The ARB reviews unresolved grievances to ensure due process and compliance with department policy, may refer issues for further investigation, and makes recommendations to the Director, who renders the final decision. Only grievances submitted on the DOC 0046 Individual in Custody Grievance or the DOC 0054 Protective Custody Status form are considered; anything else is returned. Grievances about protective custody placement, involuntary administration of psychotropic medication, and disciplinary proceedings or other issues originating at another facility go directly to the ARB, while all other grievances must first be processed through the facility's grievance procedures. ARB docket proceedings are to be completed within 120 days of receipt, with decisions on ARB Reviews rendered within four months and on ARB Hearings within six months, where reasonably feasible.