In a demonstration of solidarity with striking correctional officers at Auburn Correctional Facility, Assemblymen Jeff Gallahan (R,C-Manchester) and John Lemondes (R,C-LaFayette) have stepped in to provide portable toilets at the protest site. The move aims to support officers in maintaining their presence on the picket line for extended periods.
Gallahan, drawing from his experience as a journeyman machinist, emphasized the importance of sustaining the strike with essential resources. “I have been on multiple strikes in my career and know that it is imperative that striking workers have everything necessary to remain on the picket line as long as possible, including nearby restroom facilities,” he said. “These officers have been raising the red flag to the governor for years regarding the problems they are facing in our state prisons, and they have been ignored. This strike has shown that the governor can no longer ignore our correctional officers.”
Lemondes took direct aim at Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration, blaming its policies for worsening conditions in state prisons. He particularly criticized the HALT Act, which limits solitary confinement in New York prisons. “The failure of Governor Hochul’s misguided policies is now obvious. Our correctional officers are finally taking a stand against them, and I am 100% with our guards,” Lemondes stated. “Prisoners are there because they broke the law. The HALT Act protects the prisoners from punishment after brutally attacking our guards.”
Lemondes called on the governor to witness the conditions firsthand. “I challenge Governor Hochul to take an unannounced visit to any New York state prison to see the horrendous conditions our officers work in and how little authority she has left them with,” he said.
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