MITCHELL, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) South Dakota Corrections Secretary Kellie Wasko has resigned under pressure from lawmakers critical of her leadership and handling of the state’s new prison proposal. Governor Larry Rhoden announced her departure Tuesday, just weeks before a special session on building a 1,500-bed men’s prison in Sioux Falls. Wasko, appointed in 2022 after a misconduct scandal, faced mounting criticism over shifting cost estimates and prison safety policies. Her resignation followed an op-ed in the Dakota Scout from 12 Republican lawmakers calling for her removal. House Speaker Jon Hansen said widespread dissatisfaction had eroded trust and threatened the prison funding plan. Wasko will remain in her role until October 20th, touting accomplishments like staff pay raises and reduced vacancies during her tenure. A replacement has not yet been named. For more Government stories from MitchellNow.com, Click Here.