NCJ Number
160584
Date Published
1993
Length
98 pages
Annotation
Three prison industries programs operated by the private sector in three contrasting correctional settings were studied to provide the Bureau of Justice Assistance with a better understanding of the factors involved in successful Private Sector/Prison Industry Enhancement Certification Program (PS/PIEC) projects.
Abstract
The programs were selected because of their apparent success with respect to profitability, meeting the conditions of the PS/PIEC program, meeting legal minimums, and competing fairly on the open market. Other essential characteristics were being in harmony with the institution in which it was located, being politically acceptable, optimizing inmate employment, promoting a real-world work ethic, and meeting security requirements. The programs were located in a small jail in New Hampshire, a large close security prison in Minnesota, and a medium-security prison in Nevada. The analysis revealed that employer model projects were more likely to be successful than customer model projects. In addition, confusion existed regarding the difference between products and services, the determination of appropriate wages and benefits, and the meaning of interstate commerce. Findings indicated that BJA should encourage the development of more employer model projects, monitor wage issues in customer model projects, support the wage requirements of the certification legislation, and continue its annual review of wage rates. Footnotes and appended report on Free Venture Projects in the California juvenile corrections system