SB 1606 - Correctional Work Programs Summary

• Repeals prior correctional work program statutes and creates a comprehensive new framework authorizing the Department of Corrections to create and operate inmate work programs focused on rehabilitation, reducing recidivism, and meaningful employment after release.

• Establishes that state agencies must purchase goods and services produced by correctional work programs if they are comparable in price and quality, with dispute resolution available through the Department of Management Services and Division of Administrative Hearings.

• Authorizes the department to contract with private sector employers for Prison Industry Enhancement (PIE) programs, requiring private employers to provide workers' compensation coverage to participating inmates while specifying such participation is not employment for unemployment compensation purposes.

• Creates a seven-member Prison Industry Board of Directors appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate, with representatives from business, agriculture, and vocational training sectors, responsible for planning programs and submitting annual reports on program status and inmate recidivism rates.

• Transfers and amends the Prison Industries Trust Fund provision to allow the department to deposit revenues from correctional work programs for facility construction, renovation, and program expansion.