The issue with inmate compensation is a fairly significant one. Without even paying attention to or turning our minds to what would happen upon their release, just in terms of their experience while incarcerated, the costs of their keeping in contact with their family, paying for postage stamps and greeting cards to family members, or even looking after their own personal hygiene needs, are considerable inside an institution. So even day to day there is an impact from the fact the top income earners earn $6.90 a day. Many income earners earn half that inside an institution.
On May 8th, 2012. See this statement in context.