Florida opens 1st 'faith-based prison'

The nation's first "faith-based prison" was dedicated in Florida yesterday amid cheers from Gov. Jeb Bush and jeers from church-state separatists.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Lawtey Correctional Institution, Bush told its inmates that the focus on religious instruction in the new prison can help them stay clean once they are released.

According to an Associated Press report, in addition to regular prayer sessions, the facility will offer Bible studies, choir practice, religious counseling and other spiritual activities seven days a week. Participation is voluntary and inmates are free to transfer out.

"This is not just fluffy policy; this is serious policy," AP quotes Bush as saying. "For the people who are skeptical about this initiative, I am proud that Florida is the home to the first faith-based prison in the United States."

Twenty-six faiths are represented by the 800 inmates, the news service reported.

Over a month ago, prisoners were told the facility would become a faith-based institution, at which point 111 opted to transfer out. Other inmates in the system moved in, however, filling the empty spots.

Officials believe the recidivism rate for inmates from Lawtey will be lower than those being released from traditional prisons.

"We've developed a cocoon, a place where they can practice their faith and not have the severe negative pressures and interactions that naturally take place in some of our institutions," Correction Secretary James Crosby Jr. told AP.

Howard Simon, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida, called the prison part of "a major constitutional showdown" over government funding for religious programs, the news service reported, saying the organization is making plans for a lawsuit over the facility.

Inmate Marlin Cliburn is serving a six-and-a-half year sentence at Lawtey.

"My life was headed down the wrong road," Cliburn told AP. "I've kind of seen the light. I've been screwing up my whole life. I see this as a turning point in my life."

The news service quotes Bush as telling the prisoners: "I can't think of a better place to reflect on the awesome love of our Lord Jesus than to be here at Lawtey Correctional. God bless you."