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Policy Statements on Correctional Privatization

NCJ Number
130016
Journal
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice Volume: 7 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1991) Pages: 69-73
Author(s)
Anonymous
Date Published
1991
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This appendix outlines policy statements on correctional privatization prepared by the American Jail Association; the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees; the American Bar Association; the American Correctional Association, and the National Sheriffs' Association.
Abstract
The American Jail Association resolves it is opposed to privatization of jails, either city, county, or State. Outlining its reasons, the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees maintains that the "private ownership and operation of correctional facilities" is not the answer to the high cost of building facilities and the provision of adequate services. In its resolution, the American Bar Association urges jurisdictions that are considering the privatization of prisons and jails not to proceed to contract until the complex constitutional, statutory, and contractual issues are satisfactorily developed and resolved. Government retains the ultimate authority and responsibility for corrections according to the American Correctional Association. It recommends, however, that for its most effective operation, corrections should use all appropriate public and private resources and outlines guidelines consistent with good correctional policy and practice. The National Sheriffs' Association also opposes the transfer of the jail function to private corporations.