The TDOC bases its policy for the 1980's in the belief that purposeful work is rehabilitating and that the assignment to each institution of a specific mission (a special program purpose) is the keystone to developing such a work-oriented system. The TDOC proposes the establishment of three regional classification centers at existing facilities located in the three Grand Divisions of the State. Through the upgrading and redirecting of the correction system's classification program, inmates will be assigned to specific institutions and jobs appropriate for their abilities and personal safety as well as prison system needs. In a major revamping of TDOC training programs for staff, it is proposed that Highland Rim School for Girls be converted to the Tennessee Correction Academy. Staff training will be upgraded so that both new and existing TDOC personnel will receive higher caliber instruction related to their specific function. So as to reduce overcrowding at Tennessee State Prison and to provide housing for increased numbers of inmates entering the correction system, it is proposed that 930 beds be added to the State's prison capacity by June 1984. An Emergency Powers Act is proposed to ensure that prison overcrowding will not reoccur and to avoid excessive construction costs to provide for an ever-increasing prison population. The plan further involves an upgrading of inmate health care. Actions are also proposed to restrict incarceration only to 'dangerous' offenders, while offenders who pose lesser threats to society will be given alternative sentences. The plan includes an analysis of the long-range cost-benefit of traditional prison construction compared to other housing and sentencing alternatives.