Proposed New South Dakota Men's Prison

Faction politics has turned a prison plan into a battle requiring a special legislative session. As that approaches, the two sides are preparing for the next round.

With formalized plans announced for the embattled state men’s prison project, multiple factions of the state Republican Party have voiced their opinions on the matter.

The governor's office has released the plan for a new men's prison in Sioux Falls as well as a comparison to a Nebraska prison proposal.

Gov. Larry Rhoden has released drafted legislation that could determine the fate of a new men’s prison in South Dakota.

Department of Corrections Secretary Kellie Wasko's resignation could give some lawmakers the confidence they need to approve a $650 million prison during a special session later this month.

Kellie Wasko submitted her resignation to Governor Larry Rhoden on Monday.

Gov. Larry Rhoden recently established a new page on the official governor’s website dedicated to answering common questions about the plan.

A third-party consultant found land in Sioux Falls proposed for a new state prison is now considered to be the “best” of all proposed land.

Gov. Larry Rhoden said the state has entered into a purchase agreement to purchase 148 acres of land in northeast Sioux Falls along Benson Road. The agreement gives the state the option to purchase the site, if approved by the Legislature.

As momentum towards a new men’s prison in Sioux Falls builds, one state legislator is gathering information on how to best support the Sioux Falls community. But any support comes with a price tag legislators might not want to pay for.