JEFFERSON CITY —Senator Jamilah Nasheed, D-St. Louis, pre-filed legislation today to address the deplorable conditions at a St. Louis-area correctional facility, ahead of the Jan. 3 start of the 2018 legislative session.
Over the summer, Nasheed’s constituents raised issues about the deplorable conditions at the City of St. Louis’ Medium Security Institution, known as the City Workhouse, with Nasheed and other lawmakers across the city and state.
As a result, Sen. Nasheed pre-filed legislation addressing the boarding of prisoners. Current law creates huge budget gaps for the counties and cities that house prisoners, by allowing a low minimum floor for the state’s funding obligations for these facilities. As a result, these facilities often suffer from staffing shortfalls and outdated equipment. Nasheed’s proposal increases the state’s obligations to no less than 90 percent of the maximum allowed, which is $37.50 per person, per day.
“This legislation is a step in the right direction toward ensuring humane conditions throughout our state’s facilities,” Sen. Nasheed said. “Our state is required by both the constitution and human decency to ensure livable conditions for the incarcerated. By increasing the funds allotted to the city and county for housing inmates, we can fulfill this basic duty and ensure an appropriate standard of living.”
Earlier this year Sen. Nasheed both spoke with and sent a letter to the governor asking for his attention on this matter. The senator described the conversation between her and the governor as encouraging and thanked him for his involvement in improving Missouri’s correctional facilities.