Louisiana officials address staffing shortages and capacity at Allen Correctional Facility

In a recent meeting of the Louisiana Legislature's Appropriations Committee, discussions centered on the operational status and staffing challenges of the Allen Correctional Center, as well as broader issues affecting the state's correctional system. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding inmate capacity, staffing shortages, and the need for improved facilities.

The Allen Correctional Center is reportedly nearing full capacity, having transferred 600 inmates from Angola as part of a strategic move to manage overcrowding. However, staffing remains a critical issue, with officials noting that while there has been progress in hiring, turnover rates continue to be alarmingly high. The Secretary of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections indicated that the facility is struggling to retain staff due to the demanding nature of the work and the rural location, which limits the available workforce.

One pressing need identified during the meeting was the lack of a chapel at Allen Correctional Center. Previous requests for funding through capital outlay have not been successful, and there are discussions about reviving the Prison Chapel Foundation to facilitate fundraising efforts. This absence of a chapel is notable, as other facilities have benefitted from such structures, which are important for inmate rehabilitation and spiritual support.

The committee also addressed the financial implications of housing inmates. The current per diem cost for local beds is $26.39, with proposals to increase this rate to $35 in the coming year. This increase is projected to generate significant additional funding for the state, which could help alleviate some of the financial pressures on the correctional system.

Moreover, the meeting touched on the anticipated effects of recent legislation aimed at reforming probation and parole practices. While there is an expectation of increased probation caseloads, the Secretary noted that the overall number of incarcerated individuals may not rise significantly. Instead, the focus is on ensuring that inmates receive adequate programming and support to reduce recidivism rates.

In conclusion, the discussions during the Appropriations Committee meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by Louisiana's correctional facilities, particularly in staffing and infrastructure. As the state navigates these issues, the implications for inmate rehabilitation and public safety remain critical. The committee's next steps will likely involve further evaluations of funding requests and strategies to enhance the operational efficiency of correctional institutions.