(Pierre, SD) — State lawmakers are weighing the future of South Dakota’s prison system after Corrections Secretary Kellie Wasko’s resignation. Her departure comes as legislators heat up the debate on prison construction costs, overcrowding, and accountability. Some say the special session set for September 23rd is premature, while others are pushing for a plan to swap prison land and rethink long-term corrections needs. The debate has already drawn in 2026 gubernatorial hopefuls, with many of them calling for more transparency and a clearer vision for South Dakota’s prisons.
