Proposed New South Dakota Men's Prison

A task force to find a path forward on building a new men’s prison agrees that the state of South Dakota needs to replace the 144-year-old building in Sioux Falls.

A task force looking to craft a proposal for a new men’s prison will weigh the pros and cons of 11 East River locations at its next meeting.

A group appointed by Gov. Larry Rhoden is exploring options for a new prison facility in the state. Following the first of four meetings on what to do about constructing a new men’s prison to address overcrowding, many lawmakers say programming for inmates must increase.

Though the South Dakota Legislature balked at committing additional funds for a new men’s prison, the battle is far from over. Now, a lawsuit is before the state Supreme Court pitting the state against residents near the proposed site.

After the failed legislative attempt to secure additional funding for the $825 million prison in Lincoln County, many are skeptical of the prospect of a new men’s prison.

Gov. Larry Rhoden wants a ‘reset’ on the proposed men’s prison project. Rhoden signed an executive order to form a task force on Thursday morning. The group is comprised of lawmakers and stakeholders to find a path forward on a prison this year.

Despite already studying the idea for years, South Dakota lawmakers will likely miss a key deadline to secure a bid for the 1,500 bed men’s prison near Sioux Falls.

The future of a new, 1,500-bed men’s prison near Sioux Falls is in serious doubt following actions taken by the South Dakota state legislature on Monday. Some state lawmakers want another look at options to alleviate overcrowding in the prison system.

South Dakota House lawmakers are gridlocked over constructing a men’s prison near Sioux Falls.

The fate of a constructing a new men’s prison near Sioux Falls faces its biggest vote yet. The South Dakota House is set to vote on authorizing the project Friday afternoon.