HB 1001: the MS Inmate Labor Accountability and Rehabilitation Act

House Bill 1001, sponsored by Rep. Becky Currie, would allow inmates in state prisons to sell crafts to the public through MS Prison Industries Corporation, known as MagCor. This would include crafts, artwork, photography, or other items suitable for sale in a physical or online store, or through other means.

From the proceeds of the sale after sales tax has been paid, 25% will be used toward child support, fines, fees, and/or restitution the inmate owes; 50% will go into an account that will be available to the inmate when he or she leaves prison; 15% will be used to pay the administrative cost of the program; and 10% will be available to the inmate to spend at the prison canteen or other allowable items.

The Department of Corrections will be required to provide financial literacy training to inmates and an annual report to the legislature and the public describing the items sold and the amount of the distributions to the various categories described above.

Empower Mississippi supports this bill.