The new state budget designates $25 million for 3 new prisons. The $17 billion budget went into effect this month. It contains a hefty increase for the State Corrections Department as the expansion of the state prison system continues. Senator Harry Wiggins of Kansas City says it’s a necessary, albeit unwanted expense. The new prisons are located in Licking, Bonne Terre and Charleston. The prison building program was undertaken to relieve overcrowding and replace aging facilities.
