SPRINGFIELD - Senator Mike Jacobs (D-Moline) is pleased to announce the sale of Thomson Correctional Center is one-step closer to being reality.
"Unfortunately, this process has taken years. However, we are finally to a point where we are handing over control of the facility to the federal government," Jacobs said. "This process must be approved by the legislature and the governor to be official. This is the next step in that process."
Senate Bill 30, which passed the Senate today, allows the state to grant jurisdiction of the prison to the federal government.
The Thomson correctional facility, built in 2001, cost the state $140 million dollars to construct; however, it has never been operational because the state lacked the funds to open the facility. The Justice Department agreed to purchase Thomson in October of 2012 for $165 million. Once operational, the facility should provide over 1,000 jobs in Northwestern Illinois.
Senate Snapshot:
What: SB 30 passed Senate
The Vote: 49-5-0
Lead Senate Sponsor: Senator Mike Jacobs (D-Moline)
Next: Goes to the House of Representatives
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