|
|
| Iowa legislators say they've reached $7.5 million deal for prisons, avoiding guard layoffs |
| By therepublic.com - MIKE GLOVER Associated Press |
| Published: 02/23/2012 |
|
DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa lawmakers said Tuesday they reached a deal to increase spending on prisons by $7.5 million this fiscal year, avoiding layoffs of guards. The compromise splits the difference between the $6.5 million approved by the Republican-controlled House and the $8.5 million approved by the Senate, where Democrats have a majority. Lawmakers say the Corrections Department needs the extra money because a contract with state worker unions approved by former Democratic Gov. Chet Culver resulted in higher expenses. The state spends roughly $350 million a year on prisons. Several lawmakers said they hoped the compromise on prison spending was a sign progress could be made on other areas of the budget. "This is a case where we kind of worked out our disagreements," said Senate Majority Leader Michael Gronstal, D-Council Bluffs. "I think it's a good faith sign with Republicans here that we have talked about cooperation and working together. I think it's a good sign that we can work things out." Read More. |
MARKETPLACE search vendors | advanced search
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
|
Comments:
No comments have been posted for this article.
Login to let us know what you think