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ACA Debates Multiple-Occupancy Cell Standards

NCJ Number
134343
Journal
Detention Reporter Issue: 96 Dated: (October, November, December 1991) Pages: 3-10,3-10,3-10
Date Published
1991
Length
21 pages
Annotation
A 3-part series of articles is presented on proposed changes in American Correctional Association's (ACA) professional standards, particularly the proposal for multiple occupancy cells for medium security inmates in adult correctional facilities (ACI).
Abstract
In the first article, the three distinct proposals of the ACA Standards Committee are described. The first two, 3-4128 and 3-4128-1, offer different revisions of standards regarding single and multiple cell occupancy in maximum and minimum facilities; the third, 3-4128-2, proposes an additional standard for single cell occupancy. The latter is determined by the classification system, medical opinion, or other professional conclusions. Results of an ACA survey of agencies, affiliates, and members of the Board of Governors are presented regarding the ACA proposals. The second article presents letters written in opposition to the proposed revisions; the third article summarizes arguments in support of the proposals and describes actions taken by the ACA Standards Committee regarding these proposals. The Committee voted to revise standard 3-4128 and to adopt the new standard 3-4128-1 which allows multiple occupancy for medium custody inmates, reduces the amount of unencumbered space to 25 square feet per occupant in cells housing 2 to 50 occupants, and requires specific classification procedures. In addition, the Committee adopted a new standard 3-4128-2 which requires single-occupancy cells for specific types of inmates.