Saratoga Standard

The ongoing strike by correction officers in New York State has entered its third week, with thousands of officers expressing concerns over safety and working conditions. The situation has been exacerbated by policies from Albany that have made it more challenging for officers to protect themselves and others from violent incidents within prisons.

One significant point of contention is the HALT Act, which has reportedly led to an increase in assaults inside prisons. Additionally, loopholes in visitation and mail policies have facilitated contraband entry, resulting in drug overdoses and incidents like the recent chemical exposure at Upstate Correctional Facility.

Governor Kathy Hochul's response to the crisis has involved delegating mediation efforts to DOCCS Commissioner Martuscello, who recently received a vote of no-confidence from correction officers. Despite ongoing mediation, many officers remain on strike, losing health insurance and jobs as a result.

Governor Hochul declared a state of emergency and introduced measures such as changes in body scanner usage and adjustments to HALT. However, these steps are seen as insufficient by some lawmakers who argue that legislative action is necessary.

Senator Dan Stec sponsors three bills aimed at addressing these issues: S.2656 to repeal HALT, S.4422 for mandatory body scanner use, and S.4560 for a secure vendor process. These proposals aim to improve prison safety based on feedback from correction officers.

With New York State's budget deadline approaching, Senator Stec urges Governor Hochul and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins to include these measures or similar ones in budget negotiations. He emphasizes the need for legislative solutions rather than punitive actions against striking officers.

Stec calls for Governor Hochul to advocate for meaningful change through legislation rather than relying on executive authority or delegation. He stresses the urgency of addressing prison safety reforms given the impact on correction officers' livelihoods and public safety.