The proposed funding bill for a new men’s prison in South Dakota has failed to pass in the state House by a narrow margin of 34-35. The bill aimed to transfer $148 million from the state’s general fund to an incarceration construction fund to support a new 1,500-bed facility in Lincoln County.
This failure followed intense debate regarding criminal justice policies and fiscal priorities, with some lawmakers concerned about the costs and the state’s broader criminal justice needs.
Supporters, such as Rep. Jack Kolbeck, argued that the bill would preserve the option to continue discussing the prison project, despite its significant financial cost.
Others, like Rep. Peri Pourier, voted against the bill, emphasizing the state’s lack of investment in rehabilitation and mental health services.
Opponents also raised concerns about the long-term impact of building such a costly prison when other states are constructing prisons at lower costs.
The South Dakota Department of Corrections and Gov. Larry Rhoden have warned that delays could cost the state more in inflationary costs, but critics question whether such a project is the best use of public funds.
Some lawmakers, including Rep. Taylor Rehfeldt, continue to advocate for the prison’s construction, framing it as a necessary expense, while others like Rep. Will Mortenson are more focused on other priorities, such as education.
With the bill’s failure, there’s potential for the matter to be reconsidered, though it’s unclear if there will be enough support for it to pass in the future.