AZ SB1255

Requires director to establish a standard cost comparison model for privatization to determine if private prison proposals offer cost savings to the state.

Mandates biennial comparison of private contractor services versus state-operated similar facilities based on professional correctional standards including security, inmate management, facility safety, health services, and personnel practices.

Requires director of state department of corrections to conduct cost comparison of executed privatization contracts once every five years and provide results to the joint legislative budget committee.

Maintains existing contract requirements including contractor qualifications, compliance with correctional standards, ability to cancel after first year with 90 days' notice, and annual price adjustments limited to consumer price index changes.

Prohibits private contractors from delegating authority over inmate release dates, sentence credits, disciplinary actions, and custody determinations to ensure state maintains control over these functions.