Striking New York correction officers will be classified as absent without leave and face serious repercussions, including loss of pay and health benefits, according to the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. Despite a court order to return to work, many officers continue protesting unsafe conditions and staffing shortages.
DOCCS has warned that participating officers will lose two days’ pay per strike day and face disciplinary actions under the Taylor Law. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul has deployed the National Guard to maintain prison security. Some officers have returned to work, but negotiations between DOCCS and the correctional officers’ union (NYSCOPBA) are set to begin this week.
As mediation unfolds, state officials insist the strike is unlawful, while officers demand urgent reforms to prison policies and working conditions.
DOCCS buses vandalized in the Finger Lakes amid ongoing CO strikes
Meanwhile, two DOCCS buses were vandalized at a Cayuga County repair shop—one was set on fire, while the other was spray-painted with the message “Now you’ll hear us.” Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
The strike, now in its second week, has spread to most state prisons, with officers protesting unsafe conditions, forced overtime, and solitary confinement reforms. Governor Kathy Hochul has activated the National Guard to maintain security and warned that striking officers face pay cuts and termination.
As tensions rise, mediation talks between DOCCS and the correctional officers’ union (NYSCOPBA) are set to begin this week, with hopes of resolving the labor dispute.
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