Section 491.17 - Extension of Time Periods(1) The time periods for filing a grievance may be extended by ten business days and the time period for responding to a grievance may be extended by ten business days if the IGC or superintendent determines that the initial period is insufficient to make an appropriate decision or if the inmate presents a legitimate reason for requesting an extension. Unless extenuating circumstances exist, the time frame for filing a grievance shall not exceed 20 business days and the time frame for responding to a grievance shall not exceed 30 business days.(2) The time period for filing an appeal may be extended by ten business days and the time period for responding to an appeal may be extended by 30 business days if the appellate authority determines that the initial period is insufficient to make an appropriate decision or if the inmate presents a legitimate reason for requesting an extension. Unless extenuating circumstances exist, the time frame for filing an appeal shall not exceed 20 business days and the time frame for responding to an appeal shall not exceed 60 business days.(3) The extension periods for responding to emergency grievances and appeals may be extended by a like period of time if the individual responsible for rendering the decision determines that the initial period is insufficient to make an appropriate decision or if the inmate presents a legitimate reason for requesting an extension. Unless extenuating circumstances exist, one additional extension may be granted at the expiration of the initial extension period if the need still exists. Due to the nature of emergency grievances, every effort shall be made to file and respond to emergency grievances within the timeframes outlined in 103 CMR 491.00.(4) Extension information shall be documented in the applicable IMS Grievance screen and a written notice of all extensions shall be provided to the grievant on the applicable form.(5) An inmate's request for an extension shall be submitted in writing.Amended by Mass Register Issue 1338, eff. 5/5/2017.