The South Dakota Legislature has green-lighted the $650-million dollar funding bill for a new men’s state penitentiary in Sioux Falls. District 20 Senator Paul Miskimins voted “yes”. “I know it’s a huge investment, but basically we have the dollars and we have a plan that’s a hundred-year plan, that includes lots of rehabilitation and work to try to reduce recidivism,” said Miskimins. “And create opportunities for those that are incarcerated to have a better future.”
The Senate vote was 24-11, barely enough to reach the required two-thirds for passage. The House voted 51-18 well above the two-thirds threshold.
District 20 Representative Kaley Nolz also voted “yes.” “I think it’s the right time for South Dakota,” Nolz said. “The state has the money set aside to build it without bonding.” She added, “we’re going to be able to build a facility to address recidivism and other issues that are within the Department of Corrections.”
District 20 Representative Jeff Bathke was absent as he’s currently on an overseas military deployment. He’s been a long-time supporter of building a new prison.
Governor Larry Rhoden has already signed the bill into law.