§354D-1  Finding and purpose.  Thelegislature finds that the number and types of programs operated by thedepartment of public safety shall be expanded to provide a comprehensive workprogram for inmates.  The full development of inmate employment opportunitiesshall be expanded to enable correctional industries programs to operate in acost-effective manner.

The purpose of this chapter is to:

(1)  Establish the correctional industries program toallow expanded industries programs to generate revenue to sustain its operationand allow for capital investment.  The program should be structured to allowfor the increased involvement of correctional industries in providing specifictraining skills for offenders that increase their employment prospects after release;

(2)  Develop industries that provide a maximum levelof work for all qualified, able-bodied inmates;

(3)  Provide an environment for the operation ofcorrectional industries similar to that of a private business operation;

(4)  Encourage cooperative training ventures betweenthe correctional industries program and the private sector; and

(5)  Provide for low-cost construction, renovation,and repairs of facilities, grounds, furniture, vehicles, and equipment forprivate nonprofit social service, education, and health agencies and programs.[L 1990, c 341, pt of §1; am L 1991, c 256, §1]