Discussion focuses on the description and analysis of several models of prison work programs. Attention is given to the loss of business to foreign markets and the potential for using prison-based industries as an alternative to off- shore competition. The framework will address the issues central to business, labor, and correctional philosophy. Legislative and policy issues will be considered and alternatives proposed. The study concludes that within the criminal justice system prison industries have been and continue to be controversial. Critics, generally business, labor, and unions, traditionally opposed prison industry programs from the perspective of abusive and unfair labor practices. This resulted in restrictive legislation curtailing its development; however, just as contemporary developments have given rise to the present social, economic, and political trends, these same forces have had an impact on corrections and the reemergence of a role for prison industries. This past decade alone has witnessed the resurrection of the private sector in the forming of partnerships with correctional industrial programs. 34 references