Some prison labor programs lose money — even when prisoners work for pennies

Officials say prison labor programs provide skills, but critics say there’s little evidence of that.

The unusual overhead costs and lack of flexibility are two reasons correctional industries aren’t always cost-effective, according to a research and advocacy group. Anjali Nair / NBC News; Texas Department of Criminal Justice Share Add NBC News to Google Sept. 2, 2021, 6:00 AM EDT By Keri Blakinger, The Marshall Project "Inside Out" by Keri Blakinger is a partnership between NBC News and The Marshall Project, a nonprofit newsroom covering the U.S. criminal justice system. The column draws on Blakinger’s unique perspective as an investigative journalist and formerly incarcerated person. Subscri

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