What is the purpose of the Prison Rape Elimination Act?

The purpose of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) is fundamentally to address the issue of sexual assault within prison facilities. By focusing on creating a record of prison rapes and funding studies, the Act aims to gather essential data necessary to understand the prevalence and scope of sexual violence in correctional settings. This information is critical for developing effective policies and practices aimed at preventing sexual assault, ensuring the safety of inmates, and improving the conditions within correctional facilities. The emphasis on research and documentation reflects a proactive approach to tackle a serious issue in the prison system and establish a foundation for informed reforms and interventions. Such data collection is instrumental in fostering accountability and prioritizing inmate welfare in the prison system.