A state lawmaker wants to make sure Michigan doesn't have any privately run prisons. Michigan Public Radio Network's Cheyna Roth has more.

Cheyna Roth reports on new legislation that would ban private prisons in Michigan.

Democratic state Senator Jeff Irwin says the state should not house inmates in private facilities. He's introduced a bill to ban the practice. Although, there are currently no private prisons operating in the state.

"Prisons are a very sensitive and difficult and solemn responsibility in the state."

The bill would not ban a private operator from coming into the prison for services like health care or youth camps.

Supporters of private prisons say they can create jobs and help the local economy.

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—Cheyna Roth is a reporter for the Michigan Public Radio network. Contact WEMU News at 734.487.3363 or email us at studio@wemu.org