ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Georgia lawmakers are pressing for answers after approving a $600 million investment aimed at stabilizing the state’s troubled prison system.

During a House Budget Committee meeting on Monday, members asked whether the money has led to any meaningful improvements as violence, staffing shortages and basic security failures continue.

Committee Chairman Billy Hitchens said one of his top concerns remains broken cell-door locks — a longstanding issue that has allowed inmates to roam freely and fueled gang activity within several facilities.

Corrections Commissioner Tyrone Oliver told lawmakers that fully replacing the locks could take years, though the department is working with vendors on a long-term solution.

Oliver also said staffing trends are improv

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