Some counties use inmates to work in recycling projects, while others perform clerical duties. Work release provides employment for 1,100 nearing release from prison. They work for businesses in the community developing skills and contacts that will help in getting a job after release. Money earned by the inmates helps defray the costs of their imprisonment, pays restitution to victims and helps support their family. Inmates being processed into prison, being segregated for violating rules or receiving medical care are assigned jobs as soon as they enter the regular inmate population.
Many inmates lack the education and skills needed to make a living after they leave prison.
More than 2,800 inmates are in education and vocation classes that will prepare them for future jobs in prison and after their release. The failure of any inmate to perform such a work assignment may result in disciplinary action. Work assignments and employment shall be for the public benefit to reduce the cost of maintaining the inmate population while enabling inmates to acquire or retain skills and work habits needed to secure honest employment after their release.