(JUNEAU) - Over the last 20 years, the state has experienced more than a 120% increase in prisoner population, yet no comprehensive statewide expansion of prison beds has been achieved-until now. Both Houses of the Alaska Legislature have passed SB 65, a prison expansion bill sponsored by Senator Lyda Green of Wasilla. The bill allows for expansion of existing prison facilities and construction of new ones. In passing the bill, the House and Senate have unanimously voiced their commitment to assisting the State of Alaska in addressing the overwhelming need for more prison space in state.

"This bill is the culmination of four years of discussions and compromises in order to find a solution to our prison overcrowding crisis," said Senator Green.

The bill allows the Department of Corrections to enter into lease-purchase agreements for the construction of new or expanded facilities with Fairbanks North Star Borough, Mat-Su Borough, Bethel and Anchorage. Additionally, the bill allows the department to consider entering into a lease-purchase agreement with a private contractor for facility space and services in Whittier if the state cannot provide the same level of services required in state law and regulation for the same or less cost. The bill requires a feasibility study, competitive bidding, state procurement procedures and approval of the design and operation plan by the department. The bill also provides for the issuance of certificates of participation for upgrade, expansion or replacement of jails in Dillingham and Kodiak through matching programs. Finally, the bill requires that all correctional officers, probation officers and parole officers be certified by the Alaska Police Standards Council.

"I have been working on this issue for four years. I am delighted that the bill found unanimous support in both Houses," remarked Senator Green.

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