SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Lieutenant Governor Tony Venhuizen has sought and received a delay for when lawmakers at a special legislative session can learn about Project Prison Reset’s recommendations.
Venhuizen’s letter says extra time is needed to come up with a proposal with enough detail. Project Prison Reset is looking at how and where to recommend construction of a new prison facility or facilities in the state.
Greg Jamison is on that task force, and he says they still aim to have a proposal completed in July. He says a delay will not only benefit them, but the entire legislature.
“We’re knee deep in all the details, but the other legislators are not,” Jamison said. “And so, the concept of asking them to approve something that we know inside and out, and they’ve only maybe had a couple of weeks to digest that seems like a challenge.”
The group’s next meeting is scheduled for July 8th, and a special legislative session was originally set for July 22nd.
Governor Larry Rhoden says in a statement, ‘I will accept the task force’s request and will consult with legislative leadership on a rescheduled date for the special session. I’m eager to see what the task force can accomplish in their next meeting.’
“It makes a lot of sense for him to do that,” Jamison said. “As a former legislator, he understands the complexities of this decision and the enormity of building this new prison.”
Attorney General Marty Jackley, who is also on the task force, supports an extended timeline.
“I believe this project can get done for that $525 to $625 million, 1,500 to 1,700 beds. You know, whatever the legislature needs to get that done. I think it makes sense to give them that time,” Jackley said.
As for how long the delay might be, Jamison isn’t sure. In the meantime, the delay can allow lawmakers to voice their concerns, and it also leaves the task force adequate time to adjust their proposal.
“So if we’re getting feedback from the legislative body and they want changes to it or they won’t pass it, well then we need to make changes because we need to pass it,” Jamison said. “We’ve got to do something.”
