PIERRE, S.D. (AP) - South Dakota legislative leaders are joining with Gov. Dennis Daugaard to propose changes in the state's criminal justice system.

Daugaard in his State of the State speech Tuesday outlined proposals to cut prison costs by treating more criminal offenders outside prison walls. He says public safety also will be improved by treating more offenders in intensive probation, parole and other community supervision programs.

Daugaard, Supreme Court Chief Justice David Gilbertson and legislative leaders appointed a panel that made the recommendations.

Senate Republican Leader Russell Olson of Wentworth says it's good to start a legislative session with a nonpartisan plan backed by all three branches of government.

House Democratic Leader Bernie Hunhoff of Yankton says the criminal justice reforms are needed because the current system is not working.

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