Capital District Times

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik and several New York Republican colleagues have sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul, highlighting the issues faced by correctional officers in New York State. The letter calls attention to what they describe as excessive demands and widespread abuse under Hochul's administration.

Stefanik stated, "I will always stand up for our correctional officers and their families against the failed policies of Governor Kathy Hochul and her radical Far Left Democrat agenda. Far Left Hochul is responsible for the dangerous challenges facing our correctional officers across New York State. The rise in 'inmate on officer' assaults and the retention issues our correctional facilities experience are due to her failure to support correctional officers and their incredibly important work keeping our communities safe. I will continue to fight for the best interest of our officers as I bring their concerns to the highest levels of government."

The lawmakers' letter details how correctional law enforcement officers often work 16 to 24-hour shifts due to overtime requirements needed to maintain facility safety. They argue that these conditions lead to immense physical and psychological stress, unpredictable hours, and unprecedented workplace violence levels.

According to the letter, "More than half of New York’s correctional facilities are over 40 officers below their Budgeted Fill Level (BFL), indicating an acute staffing shortage. Some facilities are over 70 officers below their BFL." The lawmakers assert that many corrections officers are leaving their jobs, while those who remain face mandated long shifts each week without sufficient time off.

The letter requests answers from Governor Hochul about measures taken by her administration regarding scheduled days off for correctional officers and how the HALT Act has impacted violence rates within facilities.

Joining Stefanik in signing the letter were Representatives Brandon Williams, Claudia Tenney, Andrew Garbarino, Michael Lawler, Nicole Malliotakis, Anthony D'Esposito, and Nicholas Langworthy.