Capital District Times

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, along with her New York Republican colleagues, has addressed a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul concerning the current conditions faced by correctional officers in New York State. The group highlights what they describe as excessive demands and widespread abuse experienced by these officers.

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 report for 8-hour shifts but end up working 16 to 24 hours due to overtime needs. It describes these conditions as physically and psychologically demanding, citing unpredictable hours and excessive overtime as major issues. The letter claims that this year could break records for confirmed workplace violence violations.

The correspondence further notes that more than half of New York's correctional facilities are significantly understaffed, with some being over 70 officers below their Budgeted Fill Level (BFL). This staffing shortage reportedly forces remaining staff into mandatory extended shifts each week, impacting their personal lives while facilities host events for inmates.

The letter also questions Governor Hochul's administration about efforts made to ensure regular days off for correctional officers and seeks clarification on the effects of the HALT Act on violence rates within facilities.

Joining Stefanik in this initiative are Representatives Brandon Williams, Claudia Tenney, Andrew Garbarino, Michael Lawler, Nicole Malliotakis, Anthony D'Esposito, and Nicholas Langworthy.