From the Hill: Alabama clears plan to use COVID-19 relief funds to build prisons

I thin this fits under new federalism.

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Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey (R) on Friday signed legislation enabling the state to use COVID-19 relief funds to build prisons.

“Folks, this is a pivotal moment for the trajectory of our state’s criminal justice system,” Ivey said during an event where she signed bills enabling the state to use the funds.

“Let me be clear, while more reform of the system can and does need to be addressed in the future — and I am committed to that as are many legislators — today’s bill signing on the construction part of this issue is a major step forward,” Ivey continued.

The legislature opened a special session on Monday to consider a $1.3 billion construction plan to build three new prisons and renovate others. Of the funding, the state would use $400 million of its allocation from the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan to partially finance the projects.

The legislature passed two bills on Friday allowing the state to move forward with the plan, according to The Associated Press.

Ivey’s plan drew backlash from Democrats, who say that the coronavirus relief funds were not meant for prison reforms.

Rep. Teri Sewell (D-Ala.) said she was “deeply disturbed” by the legislature’s plan.