AUGUSTA, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- A bill to restore 2-and-a-half million dollars in funding to Maine's county jails has passed through the legislature and is on its way to the governor's desk. The sheriffs of many county jails have been complaining of overcrowding and budget deficits. Penobscot County Sheriff Troy Morton says he typically has about 300 inmates for a jail built to hold about 150 inmates. He says this funding would not eliminate all his budget issues but would certainly help.
"We're pleased the legislation understands the issue and the severity of overcrowding. it's not only dangerous for my staff it's dangerous for those we're incarcerating here," explained Sheriff Morton.
The bill is headed to the governor. He will not say whether or not he will veto it but as it stands now, there are enough votes in the house and senate to override a veto.