PIERRE, S.D. (KELO) — The South Dakota State Penitentiary, built in 1881, has legislative approval in 2025 to be replaced.

Lawmakers in Pierre approved a $650 million plan Tuesday for a new men's prison with around 1,500 beds in northeast Sioux Falls. South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden, who had made clear his hope for legislative success, signed the bill Tuesday night at the state capitol.

"I am pleased beyond measure that we got to this point, and it's due to the work of the people surrounding me here," Rhoden said.

But it only arrived on his desk after passing the Senate by the slimmest of margins: 24 votes in support. Since the bill appropriates money, legislative rules say it needs two-thirds support in both the Senate and House.

"A vote 'no' is not kicking the can down the road," said

See Full Page