NCJ Number
100105
Date Published
1985
Length
59 pages
Annotation
This study examined the potential role and problems and benefits associated with the use of private prison facilities and programs in Pennsylvania, as well as legal, contracting, and other provisions needed to operationalize prison privatization.
Abstract
Data were collected via law and literature reviews, field visits, a telephone survey of prison officials, and contacts with researchers and associations and organizations dealing with prison privatization. Results indicate that there is increasing consideration of privatization. At present, some services are being purchased at both the County and State level in Pennsylvania. These include food and laundry services, vocational traininq, transportation, and medical services. Allegheny County is preparing to contract with a private firm for the custody and housing of low-risk, minimum security inmates. A private facility also is proposed for State-level prisoners. This interest and activity also has been reflected in legislative proposals in the General Assembly. Identified advantages of privatization include increased flexibility for dealing with prison population fluctuations, decreased construction times and costs, greater competitiveness and its associated cost reductions, and economic advantages to businesses and the community. Identified problem areas include a lack of laws to protect the interest of the public and the rights of inmates in the operation of private prisons, potentional liability of government jurisdictions and officials associated with private prison mismanagement, possible lessening of accountability, and the relationship between private prisons and other justice system segments. Overcoming these problems will require enactment of State law governing oversight of private prisons, defining their role and status, and establishing contracting policy and procedures. Appendixes include additional data and recommendations.