NCJ Number
103749
Date Published
1985
Length
112 pages
Annotation
Testimony before the New Jersey Commission on Sex Discrimination in the Statutes considers the equality of treatment and services for female and male inmates in New Jersey prisons and equality of employment opportunities for males and females in corrections jobs.
Abstract
Testimony from corrections personnel and citizens involved in corrections programs generally notes the inequality of programs, services, and conditions for female inmates compared with male inmates. Such inequalities are noted in vocational training, medical care, and visitation rights. Limited career opportunities, discriminatory treatment, and some sexual harassment are mentioned in testimony on job conditions for female corrections personnel. Some recommendations are the enforcement of minimum standards for county jails, the use of satellite women's units instead of a single women's prison to facilitate female inmates' family contacts and access to community services, and the use of coed prisons. Other recommendations include accommodations for women who desire to care for their infant children and the provision of central medical services, such as medical screening and prenatal care. Efforts at achieving equal employment opportunities for female corrections staff and reducing sexual harassment on the job are described and recommended. Appended written statements and supplementary material.