Hutchinson to OK prison contract despite concerns

Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson speaks to reporters in his office at the state Capitol in Little Rock, Ark., Wednesday, April 10, 2019, about a bill prohibiting "sanctuary cities" that don't cooperate with federal immigration authorities. The governor said Wednesday he'll sign legislation cutting off funding to "sanctuary cities" that don't cooperate with federal immigration authorities despite the Republican's objections that the measure could open the door to racial profiling. (AP Photo/Andrew DeMillo)
Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson speaks to reporters in his office at the state Capitol in Little Rock, Ark., Wednesday, April 10, 2019, about a bill prohibiting "sanctuary cities" that don't cooperate with federal immigration authorities. The governor said Wednesday he'll sign legislation cutting off funding to "sanctuary cities" that don't cooperate with federal immigration authorities despite the Republican's objections that the measure could open the door to racial profiling. (AP Photo/Andrew DeMillo)

LITTLE ROCK-Gov. Asa Hutchinson has said he will hire an Indiana company to operate five state youth prisons, despite lawmakers' concerns about the company's operations in other states.

The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports the Arkansas Legislative Council voted 9-5 Friday against a contract with Youth Opportunity Investments, LLC, but the governor has said he will override that vote.

Lawmakers say Youth Opportunity has been issued more than a dozen written citations for poor performance in other states and criticized what they say was a cursory review of the company.

Gov. Hutchinson said he was "disappointed" with the lawmakers' decision, and said youth facilities are monitored closely to ensure children are cared for "properly and safely."

Youth Opportunity will begin operating facilities in Dermott, Harrisburg, Lewisville and Mansfield on July 1.

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