This Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2013 photo shows the Utah State Prison in Draper, Utah. Utah lawmakers are advancing a plan to relocate the state prison in southwest Salt Lake County. The Utah State Prison occupies about 700 acres in Draper where tech companies such as eBay and Microsoft have opened offices. Gov. Gary Herbert has called on lawmakers to fund the relocation so the corridor can develop as a technology hub. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) – Legislation that could lead to the relocation of the Utah State Prison is now on its way to the governor’s desk.

The facility currently occupies about 700 acres in Draper in Salt Lake County, where tech companies such as eBay and Microsoft have opened offices.

For several years, lawmakers have been weighing the relocation, which could cost as much as $600 million. Gov. Gary Herbert supports the move so the current site can develop as a technology hub.

The legislation approved Thursday directs an existing prison redevelopment committee to review offers from companies seeking to build a new prison or develop the old site. Proposals could not include an option for a privately run prison.

After weeks of debate and revisions, the House and Senate approved the legislation Thursday afternoon.