Deal will keep the new prison in Atmore

Alabama State Sen. Greg Albritton and State Rep. Alan Baker said the Alabama Legislature's ability to approve a $1.3 billion package to build two new prisons in the state is the first step toward overhauling the state prison system and also secures that one of the prisons will be built in Escambia County.

During a special session called by Gov. Kay Ivey, the legislature approved three bills that provide for a 4,000-bed facility in Elmore County and another 4,000-bed facility in Atmore next to the current Holman Prison.

Funding will come from a $785 million bond issue; using $400 million in...