NCJ Number
132209
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 18 Issue: 4 Dated: (1990) Pages: 351-358
Date Published
1990
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Focusing on the debate over the operation of prisons by the private sector, this review considers three central economic issues: growth potential; the economic effects of privatization on the community and those agencies that will be held accountable; and the efficiency of privatization.
Abstract
The economic implications of the privatization of corrections are numerous and varied. Some argue that correctional privatization has little potential for growth as only a small percentage of State and Federal prisoners currently are housed in privately-operated facilities. Others claim the percentages are more substantial. In addition to the employment issues raised by privatization, it is necessary to study taxes, impacts on the community, and costs to government as all contribute to the short-term and long-term costs of privatization. Recent studies have shown that when States contract with the private sector to operate prisons, the average cost per inmate is considerably lower than the average cost per inmate in public institutions. Some critics maintain that these savings will be short-lived and that long-term costs will exceed current expenditures. More scientific research and empirical evaluations are necessary to provide a basis for decisions that will influence the future operation of correctional facilities. 1 note, 1 table, and 33 references (Author abstract modified)