Code of Virginia § 53.1-261. Definitions.

229 words·~1 min read·/va/title-53-1/chapter-15/53-1-261

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As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:

"Correctional services" means the following functions, services, and activities when provided within a prison or otherwise:

1. Food services, commissary, medical services, transportation, sanitation, or other ancillary services;

2. Development and implementation assistance for classification, management information systems, or other information systems or services;

3. Education, training, and employment programs;

4. Recreational, religious, and other activities; and

5. Counseling, special treatment programs, or other programs for special needs.

"Prison" or "facility" or "prison facility" means any institution operated by or under authority of the Department and shall include, whether obtained by purchase, lease, construction, reconstruction, restoration, improvement, alteration, repair, or other means, any physical betterment or improvement related to the housing of inmates or any preliminary plans, studies, or surveys relative thereto; land or rights to land; and any furnishings, machines, vehicles, apparatus, or equipment for use in connection with any prison facility.

"Prison contractor" or "contractor" means any entity, including a local government, entering into or offering or proposing to enter into a contractual agreement to provide any correctional services to inmates under the custody of the Commonwealth or federal inmates under the custody of the prison contractor, while in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

1991, c. 705; 1992, c. 654; 1995, c. 694 ; 1996, c. 632 ; 2007, c. 394 ; 2025, c. 337 .