The Steuben County Legislature passed a resolution Monday in support of striking New York State corrections officers, calling for improved safety measures and better working conditions, according to the Elmira Star-Gazette. The resolution urges Governor Kathy Hochul and state officials to address rising violence and deteriorating conditions in correctional facilities.
Citing over 1,700 staff assaults in 2023, the county demands reforms, including a review of the HALT Act, improved staffing levels, fair overtime policies, and competitive wages. Officials argue the state has ignored these concerns for years.
Copies of the resolution will be sent to state leaders, pressing them to act. Meanwhile, the Department of Corrections maintains that the strikes are illegal and claims efforts are already underway to improve worker conditions.
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