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County health departments may once again inspect prison kitchens

Steve Carmody
/
Michigan Radio

State lawmakers this week will discuss outside oversight for prison food facilities.

State Representative John Kivela, D-Marquette, wants local health departments to inspect prison kitchens.

The facilities have been self-inspecting for decades.

But ever since food service was privatized in 2013, the system has had problems with maggots in food and other health issues. 

“It really upsets the prisoners,” says Kivela, “What I’m really worried about is the men and women who wear the gray uniform who are put at risk because of this.”

The state recently replaced the private contractor that was managing Michigan’s prison cafeterias.

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.
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