California Governor Seeks $10.9 Billion for Prison Reform

Gov. Schwarzenegger visited San Joaquin County Jail Thursday to make a pitch for state prison reform.

"This has been a crisis for many years, now it's reaching a boiling point," the governor said.

State prisons currently hold more than 170,000 inmates in facilities that were meant to house about half that number. Because federal courts are threatening to cap the prison population and order early releases, the governor is pitching his reform package.

Schwarzenegger walked through the honor farm dorm in San Joaquin County before talking with news reporters. Part of his $10.9 billion proposal would add 45,000 beds to local jails.

The plan would also create 16,000 state prison beds and 10,000 spots for people with medical and mental health needs. The governor needs legislators from both parties to agree this crisis needs a quick fix. He's confident he can get that support.

"They all want to solve this problem, they're all interested in working together," Schwarzenegger said. "When Democrats and Republicans get together, miracles happen."