The Illinois Department of Corrections plans to close four downstate work camps, which provide low-level offenders a chance to work within the surrounding community and be reintegrated into society in a controlled manner.
Some state lawmakers have been critical of the Illinois Department of Corrections and governor for committing to close the facilities.
After the 2020 pandemic, the work camp in Greene County was left stripped of most staff and inmates. It was temporarily closed in 2023, along with the Dixon Springs and DuQuoin Impact Programs.
The state’s Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability held multiple public hearings downstate last week to review the proposed closures since IDOC isn’t required to.
COGFA Co-Chairman Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer said the department told lawmakers as recently as May they wouldn’t be closing the facility.
In an August news release, the department announced the facility closures, including the Clayton County work camp, would mean the state won’t have to spend $35.9 million for facility improvements and other capital costs, alongside saving $6.5 million annually in operating costs.
Davidsmeyer argued the Clayton closure offers minimal savings and reverses rehabilitation goals.
Story from Illinois Radio Network
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