AZ SB1778

Establishes a private prison study committee consisting of 19 members including state legislators, law enforcement, county attorneys, judges, university faculty, criminal defense attorneys, and state department directors.

Committee shall research and report on: public safety impacts of private prisons, prisoner and staff safety, economic efficiency, constitutionality of services including health care, and staff training requirements at private prison facilities.

Committee may request information from state agencies and private prisons, hold hearings, conduct tours, and take testimony from criminal justice system participants.

Committee must submit findings and recommendations to the governor, speaker of the house, president of the senate, and secretary of state by December 31, 2021, including recommendations on whether private prisons should continue operating in Arizona.

Committee members receive no compensation but are eligible for expense reimbursement; the committee repeals September 30, 2022.