NCJ Number
100578
Date Published
1985
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the history of the Commission on Accreditation for Corrections (CAC), correctional standards development, accreditation procedures, criticisms of the accreditation process, and accreditation benefits.
Abstract
The CAC has developed standards for every aspect of correctional administration, standards which prescribe the best corrections practices currently practical in the United States. The accreditation procedure includes voluntary written requests for accreditation, a 12-month period to achieve standards compliance, an audit of the institution, an accreditation hearing, an initial accreditation for 3 years, and reaccreditation. Criticism of CAC policy, notably those leveled by Judge David Bazelon, are rooted in the view that the commission is a quasi-public body whose procedures should parallel those of licensure agencies. The majority of commission members, on the other hand, view the CAC as a nonprofit organization committed to accreditation that depends on the voluntary compliance of corrections administrators. A 1983 study of 566 responses to an accreditation appraisal by corrections administrators indicates that the principal benefits are for an institution and its program, but there are significant advantages for external relations, such as an enhanced ability to defend against inmate lawsuits. 56 notes.