MS HB1127

Allows the Department of Corrections to contract with private entities for operation, maintenance, construction, purchase, and/or lease of correctional facilities for a period not to exceed 20 years.

Requires private contractors to demonstrate qualifications including experienced management personnel, ability to expedite facility construction, compliance with applicable laws and court orders, and demonstrated history of successfully operating other correctional facilities.

Mandates private operations provide at least 10% cost savings compared to state operations (including monitoring costs), calculated over the full contract term using the certified state inmate cost per day in effect when the contract is entered.

Requires the Joint Legislative Committee on Performance Evaluation and Expenditure Review (PEER) to contract with certified public accountants every two years beginning in 2012 to establish and certify the state inmate cost per day based on Department of Corrections financial data.

Provides that lease contracts shall allow the state to purchase the facility for $1.00 at its option, and all housing contracts remain subject to annual legislative appropriation.