Iowa’s prison system is underfunded and understaffed, according to State Senator Rich Taylor, a Democrat representing District 42. He says current staffing levels are such that the public is in danger, as well as prison staff and the prisoners themselves. Taylor tells KCII-News that while prisoners deserve to serve time, they do not deserve to be victimized by other prisoners. Taylor fears that it is going to take something bad to happen before the legislature recognizes the need to increase funding.

Taylor worked in the state correctional system for 27 years, and recently announced he will seek a second term.