COGFA Committee backs keeping Dwight Prison Open

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- An Illinois legislative commission opposes Gov. Pat Quinn's plan to close two prisons and a center for people with developmental disabilities.

The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability voted 7-3 Tuesday against closing prisons in Tamms and Dwight. It also advised against closing the Murray Developmental Center in Centralia.

Senator Shane Cultra issued a statement saying "I am pleased we received the affirmative vote by CoGFA.  Now we need to move on and  make sure funding is included in the budget to protect Dwight Correctional Center."

Cultra said this is a small step in a positive direction, but we have to keep in mind there is a long road ahead.

The panel's action is only advisory. Quinn can still close the facilities, which he says must be done to cut spending and improve care for people with mental disabilities.

The Tamms prison is a "supermax" facility for the most dangerous inmates, while Dwight houses female prisoners.

The developmental center in Centralia is being targeted as part of Quinn's effort to move people out of institutions and into community care.

 

94.1 FM, WGFA