Bomke joins Rutherford and Radogno in statewide tour of correctional facilities

[June 26, 2008]  SPRINGFIELD -- State Sen. Larry Bomke, R-Springfield, joined state Sens. Dan Rutherford, R-Chenoa, and Christine Radogno, R-Lemont, on Tuesday at Lincoln Correctional Center and Logan Correctional Center to address the proposed closure of two state correctional facilities.

Rutherford and Radogno are touring state correctional facilities to bring attention to the fact that a surprise announcement to close any correctional facility across the state could be made by the governor at any time. Bomke joined them at a press conference in Lincoln to urge Gov. Blagojevich to issue an executive order for a moratorium on prison closures and to create a comprehensive, long-term strategic plan for correctional facilities in Illinois.

"The Illinois correctional system is currently at 135 percent of capacity, and there is no reasonable explanation for the closure of good and functional facilities across the state," Bomke said. "I hope the governor will take steps to establish a long-term plan for our prison systems in the state."

[Text from file sent on behalf of Sen. Larry Bomke by Illinois Senate Republican staff]