NCJ Number
87397
Date Published
1976
Length
87 pages
Annotation
A hearing before the subcommittee on labor standards was held to receive testimony on a bill, H. R. 2715, to amend Federal statutes to improve the effectiveness of job training programs in penal institutions.
Abstract
H.R. 2715, sponsored by Congressman Albert H. Quie of Minnesota, would permit the distribution in interstate commerce of goods produced by inmates who are paid not less than the prevailing minimum wages. Congressman Quie stated that the objectives of the bill are to provide prisoners with vocational training in fields which exist outside of prison and to pay them wages for the goods produced. Minnesota and other States are setting up prison work programs wherein private industry operates production components in correctional institutions and hires inmates as their work force. Such programs have been limited by the restriction of interstate sales of prisoner-produced goods because of unfair competition with private companies. The minimum-wage provision in H.R. 2715 would permit competitive wages and improve the marketability of the products. The higher wages paid to the prisoners would improve their motivation, productivity, and finances when released. This document includes H.R. 2715, statements of Congressman Quie and persons involved in the Minnesota Prisons Work Program, and other prepared statements and supplemental materials. (MF) (Resources in Education (ERIC) abstract)