What is the primary goal of the Prison Rape Elimination Act?

• A. To increase inmate discipline
• B. To eliminate sexual violence in correctional facilities
• C. To privatize correctional services
• D. To expand visitation

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is to prevent and end sexual violence in confinement settings. PREA sets federal standards to prevent, detect, and respond to sexual abuse and harassment in prisons and jails, requiring zero-tolerance policies, comprehensive staff training, victim services, confidential reporting, and independent audits. By mandating prevention efforts, thorough investigations, and accountability for staff, PREA works to reduce opportunities for abuse and protect inmates’ safety and rights. It’s not about increasing discipline, privatizing services, or expanding visitation; those ideas don’t address preventing or addressing sexual violence, which is the heart of PREA.