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Senate redirects federal funds and authorizes $1.54 million for inmate training center
Summary
Senators approved Second Substitute SB4003 to authorize use of federal voidage funds or capital replacement funds and $1,540,000 in one-time money for an inmate training center and corrections facility remodeling amid warnings about strain on capital improvements funding.
The Utah Senate on Sept. 15 passed Second Substitute Senate Bill 4,003 to redirect certain federal voidage monies (or, as a backup, ARNI capital funds) toward Department of Corrections facility remodeling and to authorize $1,540,000 in one-time funding for construction of an inmate training center.
Senator Blackham, floor sponsor, said the changes address a technical error in the original draft and add an item authorizing capital work tied to shifting inmate populations and the need for a dedicated training center. "We are authorizing the use of federal voidage monies ... and the alternative of ARNI money out of capital facilities to create a capital improvement for the education purposes in corrections," Blackham said, noting the one-time $1,540,000 appropriation for the training center.
During floor debate, Senator James Evans warned that using capital-improvement funds as a backup will worsen a backlog of deferred maintenance and urged the body to address long-term capital funding. Senator Blackcomb echoed those concerns but said the correction-related needs and population shifts make the measure the least-cost alternative available today.
Under suspension of the rules, the Senate passed the substitute by roll call, recording 23 aye votes, 1 no and 5 absent. The bill will be referred to the House for further consideration.
