I think the pay-to-stay program is a great idea when used right, and for the right reason. Pay-to-stay may be a valuable source of revenue for cash-strapped correctional facilities seeking to cope with overcrowding. The pay-to-stay idea originated in the mid-1990s as an answer to the overcrowding and high costs that had begun to burden correctional facilities. I believe jail is the last place men and women should have a free ride and live off the expense of others. Jeff Stone, a supervisor for Riverside County, California calculated that it costs the county approximately $143 per day per inmate. Being sentenced to 30 days in the county jail would cost someone $4,290. A 6-month sentence would be $26,097 and a 1-year stay in the county lock up would total up to a whopping $52,195. Stone explain that many of the county inmates were convicted of white-collar crimes and will more likely be able to afford to pay the daily upkeep. If they are unable to pay the fees, Stone said the county would put a lien on any real property the inmate owns. I believe Stone’s proposal is a on the right track, but to me seems the fees are pretty high. Also you would have to take into consideration inmates that are currently low income or on welfare. For medical treatment I believe the prison should use a sick call system. Inmates will first have to see a medical provided (medic or nurse) at no cost to the inmates. If the medical provided deems the inmate needs to see a doctor the inmate would have to pay a flat rate. I believe this program would keep inmates form using the hospital as a way to get out of their cells.
