New York Governor Kathy Hochul is seeking permission to close up to five more prisons, marking the second consecutive year she’s made this request.
This comes during an ongoing strike by correction officers who are demanding better working conditions. The proposal is included in a two-page budget amendment that is short on details.
It is currently under negotiation with the state legislature, which typically finalizes the budget by April 1. Hochul’s amendment does not specify which prisons could be shut down.
History of Prison Closures in New York
Since 2011, New York has closed more than two dozen prisons due to a declining inmate population. One of the most recent closures was the Gowanda Correctional Facility in 2021.
If approved, this new amendment would change the process of shutting down prisons. In the past, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) had a year to prepare for closures. Under the new proposal, only 90 days’ notice would be required.
No Response from the Governor’s Office or Union
The governor’s office did not respond to questions about the proposal. Additionally, NYSCOPBA, the union representing correction officers, declined to comment.
Meanwhile, an Erie County Supreme Court judge issued a temporary restraining order on February 19, calling for an end to the strike.
However, correction officers across the state have continued to stay off the job, refusing to return to work despite the court order.
Demands from Correction Officers
The correction officers are on strike for safer working conditions, more staffing, fewer working hours, and the repeal of the HALT Act.
This act limits the amount of time inmates can spend in solitary confinement. Mediation talks between DOCCS and the union began on Monday, but no resolution has been reached so far.
Staffing shortages have become so severe that Governor Hochul has deployed the National Guard to help maintain safety in the prisons.
National Guard Steps In Amid Strike
Due to the ongoing strike, National Guard members are now working in prisons to ensure safety and security. DOCCS spokesman
Thomas Mailey stated that the strikers are putting the well-being of both staff and inmates at risk. He also warned that any officer not showing up to work would be marked as absent without leave and would not be paid for each day they continue to strike.
Inmates Report Worsening Conditions
As the strike continues, some inmates and their families have reported deteriorating conditions in prisons. One inmate at Woodbourne Correctional Facility described the situation as an “apocalyptic war,” although News 4 Investigates could not verify these claims.
According to a report by New York Focus, prisoners have complained about shortages of food, showers, and medical care.
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Death of an Inmate at Auburn Correctional Facility
Amid the chaos, an inmate died at Auburn Correctional Facility, located about 100 miles east of Buffalo. DOCCS confirmed the death but did not provide further details.
Mailey assured that the department remains focused on maintaining safety and delivering essential services such as food, showers, phone access, commissary, and medical care. In some facilities, recreational activities have also resumed.
What’s Next for Hochul’s Proposal?
Governor Hochul’s request to close five more prisons now rests with the state legislature, which will decide as part of the upcoming budget negotiations.
The proposal comes at a challenging time, with correction officers on strike and serious concerns about prison conditions.
If approved, the amendment would allow for quicker prison closures with only 90 days’ notice, sparking debate over its impact on inmates, staff, and communities.
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