FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
News from Progress Michigan
Wednesday, October 3rd, 2013
Contact: Jessica Tramontana, 517-974-6302, jessica@progressmichigan.org
Progress Michigan speaks out on failed prison privatization bids
Earlier today, bids from two private companies to run a prison in Michigan failed to achieve any savings for the state. The two bids, from GEO Group and MTC would have cost Michigan far more than what it costs the state.
“The fact that privatization is not cost effective comes as no surprise given the poor track record Michigan has with slashing state services and selling them off to private corporations,” said Lonnie Scott, executive director of Progress Michigan. “What Michigan needs is dependable, cost-effective and accountable services — and state employees cover all of those bases. Privatization efforts in the past have not fared well in Michigan or across the country. Whether it’s in the state’s prisons, office buildings or parks, Michigan workers are always the best option for Michigan.”