Conclusion

The case against prison privatization is clear. The profit motive does not improve prison operation, nor does it save taxpayer money. Prison privatization only benefits corporations and their shareholders. Meanwhile, taxpayers are sold a bill of goods with the promise of jobs and tax revenues that too often do not materialize. Cost-cutting, in the pursuit of profits, leads to dangerous conditions inside — as well as outside — the prison walls. Constant employee turnover leads to understaffed prisons with untrained employees. As the evidence mounts, the public is rejecting the idea of turning this fundamental government responsibility over to for-profit corporations.

An AFSCME-commissioned poll conducted in August 1999 by the renowned research firm of Lake, Snell, Perry and Associates confirmed America’s growing mistrust of for-profit prisons. The survey questioned a sample of 800 likely voters. It showed that 51 percent opposed the idea of privatizing America’s prisons. The survey showed that voters opposed for-profit prisons because they think government-run prisons do a better job of rehabilitating prisoners, that they are more accountable, and that they do a better job of protecting public safety. They believe that for-profit prisons cut corners.

AFSCME has closely monitored the track record of for-profit prison firms since they came into existence. Our members know that prisons must be staffed by professional sworn officers and administrators that are dedicated to preserving public safety, not by corporate bigwigs that are beholden to their stockholders. As we grapple with the significant challenges facing our criminal justice system, we must bear in mind that responsibility for this system ultimately remains with the government. That responsibility is too important to turn over to an entity that exists solely to generate profits.