(Indianapolis, IN) - More people convicted of lower-level crimes in Indiana could be serving their time in prison. 

Under a measure (House Bill 1004) co-authored by local State Representative Jim Pressel and approved by the state legislature, judges will have the option to sentence people to prison if convicted of level 6 felonies.

For the past ten years, level 6 felons were mandated to serve their time in county jails.

Supporters of the legislation adopted by the House and Senate said many county jails are overcrowded now while state prisons have room for such low-ranking felons. State Representative Pat Boy and State Senator Mike Bohacek voted for the measure, while State Senator Rodney Pol, Jr. voted against it. 

The governor is expected to sign the measure.