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1/24/97

Prisoners in state correction facilities would be living a less comfortable lifestyle if the " No frills" prison bill cross sponsored by Representative Scott Ogan (R) Palmer becomes law. " Our prisons should a deterrent to crime, a place to stay out of, " said Ogan. An identical bill was first introduced in the Senate by Senator Dave Donley (Anch). Ogan has introduced his bill in House to add support and speed the process.

The 9 page bill among other things seeks to amend living conditions by requiring a more basic food menu, elimination of cable TV, possession of a certain music and video devices, possessing pornographic material, elimination of unmonitored calls, and using tobacco products. Ogan is quick to point out that HB-74 is not just about living conditions. " Our prison system needs to do two basic things foremost, protect the public, punish perpetrators. It is not suppose to be a fully equipped country club or a free medical clinic ", said Ogan.

Alaska prisons have come under scrutiny for their upscale approach to inmate care. Ogan gives food costs as an example. " In 1995 the average food cost per person at Elmendorf Air Base was $5.91. If this is what we provide for our volunteers who protect our country, we certainly should do no more for those who threaten our society from within." In the proposed legislation food costs are set at 90% of the average military rate.

Other items covered in the prison reform bill include prohibitions on physical activity which might be used in a violent manner such as martial arts. It also requires prisoners to reimburse the state for medical costs associated with conditions that existed before incarceration. Inmates will also be charged a fee for use of certain electrical appliances in cells.

Ogan expects the House to deal with the issue more expeditiously this session.

" Last session there was a last minute log jam. With Senator Dave Donley’s bill already moving on the Senate side, I am hopefull I can get the House to also address the issue this time around," said Ogan.

FOR MORE INFO: REP. SCOTT OGAN / STATE HOUSE 1-800-862-3878