As used in this chapter the following words shall have the following meanings:
(1) "Department" means the department of corrections.
(2) "Emergency furlough" means a specially expedited furlough granted to a resident to enable him or her to meet an emergency situation, such as the death or critical illness of a member of his or her family.
(3) "Furlough" means an authorized leave of absence for an eligible resident, without any requirement that the resident be accompanied by, or be in the custody of, any law enforcement or corrections official while on such leave.
(4) "Resident" means a person convicted of a felony and serving a sentence for a term of confinement in a state correctional institution or facility, or a state approved work or training release facility.
(5) "Secretary" means the secretary of corrections, or his or her designee or designees.