The state's Work Ethic Camp in McCook, Neb., is set to become a detention center for migrants facing deportation proceedings. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)

McCOOK, Neb. — Thirteen McCook residents filed a lawsuit this week to stop Nebraska officials from converting a state prison into an immigration detention facility with the backing of a former lawmaker who helped pass the law directing the state’s use of the facility.

The 24-page lawsuit, filed Tuesday in Red Willow County District Court, argues Gov. Jim Pillen’s in-progress plan to convert the Work Ethic Camp in McCook would “usurp” legislative authority and violate separation of powers under the Nebraska Constitution and state law. Pillen and Rob Jeffreys, director of Nebraska’s correctional system, are named in the case.

“Neb

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