New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Tuesday that preparations are underway to deploy the New York National Guard to state correctional facilities if an ongoing correction officer work stoppage is not resolved. The measure aims to ensure the safety of correction officers, inmates, and surrounding communities, following a recent violent incident at Collins Correctional Facility in Erie County.
Escalating Tensions at Collins Correctional Facility
The situation intensified after inmates took control of three dorms and attacked three correction officers at the medium-security Collins facility. Reports indicate that the prison has been experiencing staffing shortages, which have contributed to increased violence. Over the past year, dozens of officers have reportedly suffered injuries due to inmate attacks.
To address these challenges, Hochul has directed Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) Commissioner Daniel Martuscello and senior officials to engage with the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA). The goal is to negotiate an end to what the governor has described as an “unlawful work stoppage” that is creating serious public safety concerns.
Governor Hochul’s Response and Legal Measures
In a statement, Hochul underscored the urgency of the situation, asserting that the correction officers’ actions must cease immediately.
“We will not allow these individuals to jeopardize the safety of their colleagues, incarcerated people, and the residents of communities surrounding our correctional facilities,” Hochul stated.
If the work stoppage continues, National Guard troops will be deployed on Wednesday to assist at DOCCS facilities. Additionally, disciplinary action will be considered as necessary, reports Foxnews.
Legal measures are also being explored to compel employees to return to work under the Taylor Law, which prohibits public-sector strikes in New York. Hochul’s office is collaborating with the Office of the Attorney General to determine possible enforcement actions.
Impact on Prison Operations and Officer Concerns
Commissioner Martuscello described the work stoppage as an illegal job action that is harming facility operations and endangering both staff and inmates.
“We will continue to develop strategies to reduce assaults and to bring more staff on board,” Martuscello said, emphasizing that efforts to improve working conditions are ongoing.
Despite the labor dispute, he urged union members to resume their duties, acknowledging that while disagreements exist, the security of correctional facilities must remain a priority.
Recent Efforts to Improve Correctional Officer Conditions
In March 2024, the NYSCOPBA reached a collective bargaining agreement with the State of New York, securing multiple benefits for correction officers, including:
- Salary increases, with a $6,500 raise for new employees
- Location-based pay adjustments ranging from $500 to $1,000 for downstate assignments
- Hazardous duty pay increases from $200 to $1,075
- 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave
Additionally, new recruitment efforts and policy changes have been implemented to enhance workplace safety. However, recent incidents suggest that concerns persist among officers about staffing levels and facility security.
