This is where Ohio fails significantly in having a good oversight. Although loose in other respects, the current law does not provide any operational flexibility for the department or the Legislature. The law requires the use of a private company, even if public services are cheaper. Tim Roberts will discuss our proposal in greater detail, who will also testify. Every penny not spent adds to company's bottom line.
Private companies have a recurring track record that effects their ability to deliver as promised.
Lack of services has been continually documented as a shortcoming of private prisons. They were fined and their contract was not renewed. Public services are accountable to the public the private sector is not. The only accountability currently available to the Legislature is the information provided by DRC in a two-year budget hearing, and a CIIC inspection. The company's interest in making a profit seriously impairs public safety by cutting corners on essential components in operating a safe and secure prison.