A new rule in the Louisiana House of Legislature is blocking Gov. Bobby Jindal's plan to sell the Avoyelles Prison. However, the governor has threatened to close the prison if he does not get his way to find ways to balance the budget in Louisiana.

The Morning Advocate reported today that Jindal said he still is intent on selling the state prisons in Avoyelles, Allen and Winn parishes despite resistance from legislators.

Standing in his way is a new House rule limiting the use of one-time money that is not expected to materialize year after year.

“With this rule, it’s now easier to raise taxes than it is to use one-time money to fund critical services. To me, it’s foolish,” the governor said.

House Speaker Jim Tucker, R-Terrytown, said he does not see the rule disappearing.

“The Republican delegation had a discussion about it … and the overwhelming belief was that it is a solid reform,” he said.

While Jindal calls the ruling foolish, he himself has been the target of what local officials call his own foolish plans. Jindal has has come under harsh criticism from Avoyelles officials, over his plan to sell or close the prison in Cottonport. District Attorney Charles Riddle, III testified before the house last month likened the governor's action to a drug addict paying for something on a one time satisfaction and not thinking of the future.