Governor Creates Commission to Study Arizona Prison Problems

PHOENIX (AP) Gov. Katie Hobbs on Wednesday announced the creation of a commission to study problems in Arizonas prisons, including staffing levels and the health care offered to those behind bars.

The creation of the commission by Hobbs, Arizonas first Democratic governor since 2009, came several days after she ordered a separate r eview of the states death penalty protocols.

We cannot deny there is an urgent need to provide transparency and accountability in Arizona corrections system, Hobbs said.

The commission will examine inmate access to food, medicine and sanitary products; whether prison staffing levels are adequate; conditions of the prisons, including security measures and whether they are crowded; rehabilitation and education programs for prisoners; and access to medical and mental health care and drug treatment programs.

David Fathi, an American Civil Liberties Union attorney who represents Arizona prisoners who challenged the quality of health care behind bars, applauded the establishment of the commission.