Central PA News

HARRISBURG—State lawmakers, including Policy Committee Chairman David H. Rowe, Representative Kerry Benninghoff, and Representative Dallas Kephart, are organizing a hearing to address the potential closure of two correctional facilities in Pennsylvania. These facilities, SCI Rockview and Quehanna Boot Camp, are targeted for closure under a proposal from Governor Josh Shapiro's administration.

The hearing, titled "The Impact of Prison Closures in our Communities," is scheduled for Monday, April 14, at 2 p.m. It will take place at the Ramada by Wyndham State College and Conference Center in State College. Key participants will include local representatives, leaders from the Centre County Chamber of Commerce, and officials from the Pennsylvania State Corrections Officers Association.

"As it relates to the proposed prison closures, there are too many questions unanswered and too many voices unheard," expressed Rowe. "This hearing will allow us to advocate for more transparency and accountability from the Shapiro administration. Pennsylvanians deserve nothing less."

Benninghoff echoed the concerns, stating, "The goal of this hearing is to get answers to many of the questions we have but have been unable to obtain since Gov. Shapiro announced his desire to close corrections facilities during his February budget address. We haven’t been told why these closings are necessary or from where the savings will come. Nearly 900 jobs would be lost, and our region stands to take a significant economic hit, considering SCI Rockview and Quehanna Boot Camp are approximately 30 miles apart."

Kephart highlighted the contributions of Quehanna Boot Camp, noting, "Quehanna efficiently lowered recidivism rates and employed many people in the 73rd Legislative District. I believe Quehanna is an effective criminal justice center. I believe this hearing of the Republican Policy Committee will help spread awareness of the impact these proposed closures."

These facilities are significant employers and are perceived as critical components of the state's public safety network. The lawmakers aim to examine the effects of the proposed closures on local communities and the economy. The event is open for the public to view online, subject to technical availability.