This report provides an econometrics framework for conducting empirical research on the effectiveness of independent prison oversight. The report suggests several approaches for that could be used to measure the impact of oversight and identifies metrics and sources of data that would enable such analyses. These proposed approaches focus on outcomes related to transparency and accountability—the twin goals of independent correctional oversight. Additionally, the report discusses the limitations of focusing solely on empirical analysis to understand the impact of prison oversight and identifies complementary avenues of research. The report was authored by economist Jamein Cunningham, Ph.D., an Assistant Professor at the LBJ School of Public Affairs and the School of Law at the University of Texas at Austin, in collaboration with Michele Deitch, J.D., M.Sc., and Alycia Welch, M.P.Aff., M.S.S.W., Director and Associate Director, respectively, at the Prison and Jail Innovation Lab.
