Preserving Private Pokeys

Private jails would come under state regulations if a bill moving through the House becomes law. Missouri has four private jails and more could be on the way. Not one of those jails has to comply with state standards. But a bill receiving preliminary approval in the House would subject those facilities to the same rules regarding public ones. They would be liable for problems arising from their inmate populations. Critics contend private jails and prisons are wrong and should not exist in the state.