The South Dakota Legislature has united with 2/3 majority in both the House and Senate to pass a $650 million project for a new prison in Northeast Sioux Falls. While spending an enormous amount of money is not a "fun" thing to do in a prison build, it is a crucial step forward for our state. This 1,500-bed facility will replace the outdated State Penitentiary, built before South Dakota's statehood in the Dakota Territory era. Designed to enhance safety for our dedicated corrections officers, the new prison will also address overcrowding and prioritize rehabilitation. Do we have more work to do to support work-release and rehabilitative programs? Yes and the Governor is assembling a prison task force to address the much-needed improvements. Backed by the South Dakota Sheriffs' Association, the South Dakota State's Attorneys Association, and the South Dakota Fraternal Order of Police, this bipartisan effort reflects strong state-wide support. I'm proud to support this initiative for safer working conditions in this essential service that also keeps us safe. As always if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to me at [email protected]
