701 state prison jobs will be eliminated, part of a plan to help overcome a projected state budget shortfall. The number, representing 5% of the system’s workforce, does not include corrections or parole officers, teachers, or nurses.

162 current vacancies would not be filled and 539 positions would be terminated.

The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction said the state’s prison population is 50,099, an all-time high and is expected to hit 55,000 by 2010.