PIERRE, SD -- Democratic Minority Leader Rep. Erin Healy and Assistant Minority Leader Sen. Jamie Smith will be part of Gov. Larry Rhoden's Prison Reset Work Group. Both released the following statements about being named to the group.

"The Prison Reset Task Force is an important opportunity to provide legislative input on a new penitentiary building," said Rep. Healy. "Our state faces serious challenges within our current penitentiary, and we must find a solution that ensures that it is safe for inmates, staff and people who visit while also improving rehabilitation efforts to reduce recidivism."

"A strong justice system must do more than punish—it must prepare individuals for successful reintegration into society. That means ensuring our penitentiary provides the necessary resources for education, job training, and mental health and substance abuse treatment. While this task force will provide our state answers for a future penitentiary, we also need to invest in solutions that address the root causes of crime before incarceration."

"Through the Prison Reset Task Force, I will advocate for policies that protect public safety and provide real rehabilitation opportunities."

"I’m honored to have been chosen to be part of this important task force," said Sen. Smith. "This gives South Dakota an opportunity to focus on our future. Rehabilitation is a primary concern of mine along with ensuring the safety of our inmates, staff and communities."

For questions, you can contact the SDDP Executive Director Dan Ahlers at [email protected] or contact the state party office by phone at 605-271-5405 or 605-940-3071.