The study was conducted from January through December, 1979 by the Jail Standards Study Commission appointed at the direction of the Governor. This summary report contains the standards themselves, including a legal synopsis of relevant statutory and case law upon which the standards are founded. The standards apply to administration and management, including fiscal management, personnel and training, security, discipline/grievance, community involvement, inmate housing, supervision of inmates, and records; architecture/facility planning (physical plant, planning new facilities, facility safety, and sanitation and maintenance); programs and activities, including food, inmate commissary, inmate communications, visitation, employment and rehabilitation services, religious guarantees, and inmates' rights; and classification and screening, including health and hygiene services, and admissions and release. The standards were developed to be used on a voluntary basis to guide local officials and administrators in the design and operation of local jails. Forms proposed as a means of complying with standards that require the maintenance of special records are appended. Footnote references are provided.