The proposed bill amends existing Arizona Revised Statutes related to private prisons, specifically sections 41-1609 and 41-1609.01, and introduces new performance metrics and reporting requirements for contractors providing correctional services. Key changes include the establishment of a separate revolving fund for compensation received under agreements with federal or state entities, which will not revert to the state general fund if unspent. Additionally, all contracts must comply with new Article 9, which outlines performance metrics focused on reducing return-to-prison rates and increasing job placement rates for eligible offenders.

The bill also introduces a performance incentive payment structure, where contractors can earn up to 10% of the total contract value based on their success in meeting specified performance metrics. It mandates annual reporting on various performance indicators, including program effectiveness and average idle time per offender, to be submitted to state leadership and made publicly available. Furthermore, the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission is tasked with defining baseline rates and determining necessary employment data for calculations related to the performance metrics. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability and performance in private prison operations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1609, 41-1609.01, 35-193, 41-2537, 41-1609.02, 41-1692, 41-1693, 41-2546