California prison overhaul costs criticized

The Legislative Analyst's Office issued a report criticizing the Brown administration's plan to overhaul California's prison system. Although the report said the plan merits consideration," it said the state will end up facing high costs despite decreasing prison capacity.

The prison system is under intense scrutiny as it works to meet court-ordered benchmarks on reducing overcrowding and improving inmate healthcare. The court-appointed receiver who controls the prison medical system has said renovating facilities is a crucial next step, but the Legislative Analyst's Office questioned whether it's necessary.

CDCR has responded that the new construction will lower costs over the long run, and is mandated by court orders.

More at the Los Angeles Times.