PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- The South Dakota Senate Local Government committee heard and approved a bill that could help counties pay for new jails.

Senator Bryan Breitling (bright-ling) of Miller said counties have a difficult time financing jail construction.

Breitling says the money would give counties more time for jail projects.

Senator Helene Duhamel of Rapid City said legislators have ignored the needs of counties.

The bill passed on a six to zero vote and now goes to the Joint Committee on Appropriations.