New York State Assembly Republicans are ramping up pressure on Gov. Kathy Hochul to repeal the Humane Alternatives to Long-Term Solitary Confinement Act, arguing that it has exacerbated violence and disorder in state correctional facilities.
Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski) and fellow conference members gathered to demand urgent action, citing a sharp rise in assaults on staff and inmates since the HALT Act’s implementation in March 2022. The lawmakers also criticized Hochul’s recent announcement to close up to five additional prisons, a move they say will worsen an already dire situation.
Assembly Republicans say they have been in direct contact with correctional officers, their families, and facility staff, who paint a grim picture of deteriorating conditions. According to data from the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, since HALT took effect:
- Inmate-on-inmate assaults have surged by 169%.
- Inmate-on-staff assaults have increased by 76%.
- Instances of contraband smuggling have risen by 32%.
Assemblyman David DiPietro (R,C-East Aurora) condemned the governor’s inaction, stating, “Our correctional officers are overworked, understaffed and under siege, yet Kathy Hochul refuses to lift a finger. I am demanding the immediate repeal of HALT before more officers get hurt or worse.”
Others pointed to broader systemic failures. Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) warned that prison closures and a staffing shortage—now exceeding 2,200 vacancies—have created a “powder keg environment.” He argued that HALT restricts correctional officers’ ability to manage the most violent inmates, putting both staff and other incarcerated individuals at risk.
Palmesano also pushed for improved pay and benefits for correctional officers, including recruitment and retention bonuses. He criticized Hochul for twice vetoing “death gamble” legislation, which would ensure COs’ earned pensions are passed to their families if they die while still employed.
Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C-Horicon) echoed these concerns, calling the HALT Act a policy failure that has “crippled” state prisons. “These men and women are working grueling double and sometimes triple shifts without the tools or support they need to stay safe. It’s unacceptable,” he said.
Assemblyman Anil Beephan (R,C-East Fishkill) described the toll of 16- and 24-hour mandatory shifts on officers’ well-being and public safety. “It is deeply concerning that the governor’s response to these legitimate demonstrations has been subpoenas rather than support and acknowledgment,” he said.
As the crisis worsens, Assembly Republicans say they will continue advocating for HALT’s repeal and broader reforms to improve prison safety and working conditions for correctional officers.
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