Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB1184

Introduced
2/13/26  

Caption

Establishing the Prison Industry Enhancement Authority; providing for employment of incarcerated individuals by private industry and for subcontracts with correctional agencies; establishing guidelines for incarcerated individual compensation; and providing for location of private sector prison industry.

Impact

The introduction of SB 1184 is expected to have widespread implications on state laws related to the management of correctional facilities and the employment rights of incarcerated individuals. By defining the parameters for the involvement of private industries in prison labor, the bill may foster a more structured approach toward rehabilitating individuals through gainful employment. It positions the state to potentially reduce recidivism rates by empowering incarcerated individuals financially and socially through work opportunities, thereby making strides in public safety and community reintegration efforts.

Summary

Senate Bill 1184 seeks to establish the Prison Industry Enhancement Authority, specifically aimed at facilitating the employment of incarcerated individuals by private industry. This legislation proposes a framework allowing for subcontracting with correctional agencies, increasing opportunities for those incarcerated to engage in work that is economically beneficial both for themselves and for society. The framework outlined in the bill identifies guidelines for the compensation of incarcerated workers, which seeks to ensure fair payment for work performed while enhancing their chances of reintegration into the workforce upon release.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB 1184 may centre on concerns relating to the exploitation of incarcerated individuals in the workforce, with critics fearing a system that could be compared to modern-day slavery, as compensation may not reflect fair labor standards. Furthermore, advocates for incarcerated rights may argue that private industry involvement complicates efforts to improve conditions and pay for imprisoned workers. Proponents of the bill are likely to argue that it provides necessary job training and experience, while opponents will call for strict regulations to protect against abuse and ensure that individuals are not taken advantage of during incarceration.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB2154

Establishing the Prison Industry Enhancement Authority; providing for employment of incarcerated individuals by private industry and for subcontracts with correctional agencies; establishing guidelines for incarcerated individual compensation; and providing for location of private sector prison industry.

PA SB983

Providing for commercial/industrial rooftop solar generation; establishing the Commercial/Industrial Rooftop Solar Program; and promulgating regulations.

PA SB874

In election districts and polling places, providing for residence of incarcerated individuals.

PA SB2288

Mississippi Prison Industries Act of 1990; bring forward.

PA SB406

Providing for regulation of the meat packing and food processing industry by creating facility health and safety committees in the workplace; establishing the industry workers' rights coordinator within the Department of Labor and Industry; and imposing penalties.

PA HB1923

Providing for regulation of the meat packing and food processing industry by creating facility health and safety committees in the workplace; establishing the industry workers' rights coordinator within the Department of Labor and Industry; and imposing penalties.

PA HB2664

Establishing the private energy campus and industrial host-site electric generation act to authorize the provision of energy services to private enterprises located on a private energy campus.

PA SB361

To Create The Industrial Development Authorities Expansion Act; And To Provide For The Creation Of Industrial Development Authorities To Secure And Develop Industry And Foster Economic Development.

PA HB891

Correctional Services - Incarcerated Individuals - Menstrual Hygiene

PA SB69

Establishing Recovery-to-work as a pilot program within the Department of Labor and Industry; and providing for local recovery-to-work pilot programs, for incentives to encourage business participation and for powers and duties of the Department of Labor and Industry.

Similar Bills

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MS SB2850

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HI SB2717

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HI HB2497

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MI SB0793

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PA SB983

Providing for commercial/industrial rooftop solar generation; establishing the Commercial/Industrial Rooftop Solar Program; and promulgating regulations.