Members of the Arkansas legislature are scheduled to discuss the contentious proposal for a new prison in Franklin County at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. This proposal has drawn significant opposition from both political parties and local residents, raising concerns about its financial implications and site suitability.
The proposed facility has faced numerous challenges, most notably during the last legislative session, when attempts to fully fund the project were rejected multiple times. Critics argue that the selected site in Franklin County is inadequate and highlight the anticipated costs, which are projected to reach approximately $1 billion by the time the project is completed.
Supporters of the prison contend that it is essential to alleviate the overcrowding issues currently affecting state inmates housed in county detention centers. They emphasize that without new facilities, the state’s criminal justice system will continue to struggle under the weight of increased inmate populations.
The upcoming news conference will be available for live streaming, allowing broader access to the discussions and concerns surrounding this significant legislative issue. As the debate continues, both proponents and opponents of the prison project remain vocal about their positions, indicating that this topic will likely remain a focal point in Arkansas politics for the foreseeable future.
The outcome of the discussions on Tuesday may shape the future of the state’s correctional facilities and influence legislative priorities moving forward.
