Lincoln, Neb. (KMTV) - State lawmakers have approved a seven-member committee to delve into problems with the state’s prison system.
Union leaders have blamed overcrowding for the on-going violence in Nebraska’s prisons, including attacks on staffers in Lincolnand Tecumseh.
State corrections administrators have questioned the need for a new committee, stating they are making improvements, which includes trying to hire more guards. In the past, Governor Pete Ricketts and state Attorney General Doug Peterson have opposed prison reform measures.
The unicameral approved the committee's creation with a 28-11 vote.
