Everything You Need to Know About Union Supply Inmate Packages in Georgia

For families with incarcerated loved ones in Georgia, the ability to send packages is a crucial lifeline. For years, Union Supply Direct was a dominant player in this market. But the landscape is changing, and understanding the current situation requires examining the company’s history, its impact, and the ongoing controversies surrounding its operations.

Who is Union Supply Direct?

Union Supply Direct is a private company that specializes in providing commissary and package services to correctional facilities across the United States, including Georgia. They offer a range of products, from food and hygiene items to clothing and electronics, which incarcerated individuals can purchase (or have purchased for them) through approved channels. They are not directly affiliated with any labor union despite the name.

What are Inmate Packages?

Inmate packages, in the context of Union Supply Direct, refer to pre-approved bundles of goods that families and friends can purchase for incarcerated individuals. These packages often supplement the basic necessities provided by the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) and can significantly improve the quality of life for those behind bars. Package contents are strictly regulated by the GDC to prevent contraband and ensure security.

When did Union Supply Become a Major Player in Georgia?

Union Supply's presence in Georgia's correctional system grew significantly throughout the 2000s and 2010s. This period coincided with a national trend of correctional facilities outsourcing various services to private companies, often touted as a cost-saving measure. Union Supply became a key vendor for package programs, gaining a substantial market share.

Where Does Union Supply Operate in Georgia?

Union Supply Direct, while not physically located within the facilities, services nearly all of the state's prisons through its online ordering platform and delivery system. Families and friends place orders, and Union Supply ships the packages directly to the individual correctional facilities for distribution.

Why are Inmate Packages Important?

Inmate packages serve multiple critical functions. They provide incarcerated individuals with access to goods beyond the basic necessities provided by the state, boosting morale and potentially reducing tension within the facilities. They also offer a vital connection to the outside world, allowing families to support their loved ones during a difficult time. Furthermore, the commissary system, including package programs, can generate revenue for the GDC, which is often used to fund inmate programs and services. However, this revenue-generating aspect also raises concerns about potential exploitation.

Historical Context: The Rise of Private Corrections and Package Programs

The growth of Union Supply and similar companies is linked to the broader trend of privatization in the corrections industry. Starting in the 1980s, states began contracting out various services to private companies, including food service, healthcare, and commissary. Proponents argued that privatization could lead to greater efficiency and cost savings. However, critics raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, reduced accountability, and the prioritization of profit over the well-being of incarcerated individuals. The rise of package programs was a natural extension of this trend, allowing private companies to further penetrate the correctional market.

Current Developments: Controversies and Challenges

Union Supply's operations in Georgia, like those of other similar companies nationwide, have faced scrutiny. Some common criticisms include:

• High Prices: Critics argue that Union Supply's prices are significantly higher than those found in retail stores, exploiting families who feel obligated to provide for their incarcerated loved ones. A 2017 report by the Prison Policy Initiative found that commissary prices, in general, are often marked up significantly, particularly for essential items.


• Limited Choice: Families are often restricted to purchasing items from Union Supply's catalog, limiting their ability to shop around for better deals or send items that might be more meaningful to the incarcerated individual.


• Package Restrictions: The GDC imposes strict regulations on what can be included in packages, and these regulations can change frequently, leading to confusion and frustration for families.


• Monopolies and Lack of Competition: In many states, including Georgia, Union Supply has enjoyed a near-monopoly on the inmate package market, limiting competition and potentially driving up prices.


• Quality Concerns: Some families have reported concerns about the quality of the products sold by Union Supply, alleging that items are often substandard or overpriced.

Recent Legal Challenges and Policy Changes

In recent years, there have been growing calls for reform of the inmate package system in Georgia and across the country. Some states have explored alternative models, such as allowing families to send money directly to incarcerated individuals' accounts, giving them more control over what they purchase. Others are pushing for greater transparency and regulation of commissary and package prices.

In Georgia, there have been legislative efforts to address some of these concerns, including proposals to increase oversight of commissary contracts and reduce markups on essential items. However, these efforts have faced resistance from both the GDC and the private companies that benefit from the current system.

Likely Next Steps

The future of inmate packages in Georgia is uncertain, but several key trends are likely to shape the landscape:

• Increased Scrutiny: Expect continued scrutiny of Union Supply and other commissary providers from advocacy groups, media outlets, and potentially state legislators.


• Calls for Reform: The pressure to reform the system is likely to intensify, with advocates pushing for greater transparency, lower prices, and increased choice for families.


• Legislative Action: While passage is not guaranteed, there is a growing possibility of legislative action aimed at regulating the inmate package market and protecting families from exploitation.


• Alternative Models: The GDC may explore alternative models for providing commissary services, such as allowing families to send money directly to incarcerated individuals' accounts or contracting with multiple vendors to increase competition.


• Legal Challenges: Lawsuits challenging the legality of certain aspects of the inmate package system, such as excessive markups or restrictive regulations, are possible.

The debate over inmate packages in Georgia highlights the complex challenges of balancing the needs of incarcerated individuals and their families with the security concerns of correctional facilities and the financial interests of private companies. Finding a solution that is fair, transparent, and cost-effective will require careful consideration of all stakeholders' interests. The current system, while providing a valuable service, is ripe for reform to ensure that it truly benefits those who need it most.