The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA)

The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), enacted in 2003, aims to address and prevent sexual assault in correctional facilities across the United States. It establishes national standards to promote safety and transparency, requiring prisons and jails to develop policies to prevent, detect, and respond to sexual abuse. PREA mandates data collection on incidents, staff training, and prisoner education regarding their rights and reporting procedures. The act reflects a commitment to safeguarding the dignity and safety of inmates, acknowledging that sexual violence has no place in correctional environments.