state department of
corrections; continuation
HB 2065 continues the Arizona Department of Corrections for 10 years.
The Arizona Department of Corrections (ADC) was established in 1968 by combining independently operated prisons into one department. ADC’s purpose, as described in its mission statement, is “To serve and protect the people of Arizona by imprisoning those offenders legally committed to the Department, and by providing community based supervision for those conditionally released.” ADC’s goals include maintaining custody and control over inmates, providing programs for inmates, increasing staff recruitment, retention, development and improving operations through technology and innovation.
As of November 29, 2001, ADC incarcerated 27,800 inmates and as of October 31, 2001 had 3,586 inmates under Community Supervision. ADC currently operates ten major prison complexes throughout the state, along with three private prisons and 20 parole offices. In FY 2002, ADC’s operating budget was $597.2 million, and included a workforce of more than 10,600 FTEs.
The House Public Institutions and Rural Affairs and Senate Judiciary Committee of Reference held a sunset review hearing for the ADC on December 13, 2001. The Committees recommended the continuation of the ADC for 10 years.