RAPID CITY, S.D.(Press Release) – The South Dakota Freedom Caucus is taking a strong stand against the $650 million non-guaranteed price Sioux Falls prison project, calling it irresponsible government spending at a time when South Dakota faces serious economic uncertainty.

With the threat of an economic recession on the horizon, South Dakota taxpayers cannot afford a $650 million price tag, and likely $55 million per year operation. This project is a bloated proposal that would saddle future generations with massive debt instead of pursuing responsible, cost-effective solutions.

Lawmakers will reconvene in a special session in Pierre on Tuesday, September 23, to vote on this proposal. The South Dakota Freedom Caucus is urging fellow conservatives of the legislature to stand with taxpayers and vote NO, just as they did during the last legislative session when this same project was rejected.

The South Dakota Freedom Caucus also calls on Governor Rhoden to pause or bring forward a radically different responsible alternative option that protects South Dakota families from this unnecessary waste of taxpayer dollars.

The South Dakota Freedom Caucus has also released a six-step proposal outlining a smarter, more affordable path forward, available now on the SDFC website: www.sdfreedomcaucus.org/news