HS/HB 287 - This act allows the operation of private jails in Missouri. "Private jails" means any correctional facility, prison, jail or other facility which confines criminal defendants awaiting disposition of pending charges, including defendants facing revocation proceedings. This act establishes requirements and standards for such facilities. Private jails must provide certain services for inmates and must be accredited by the American Correctional Association. Public entities must hold public hearings before contracting for the services of a private jail.

This act allows regional jail commissions to, upon voter approval, have a 1/8%, 1/4%, 3/8%, or 1/2% regional sales tax for the purpose of operating a regional jail district. Further provisions include ballot language and the establishment of the Regional Jail District Sales Tax Trust Fund. Jails operated by private authorities may not participate in regional jail districts.
VANESSA CALEB