Gov. Kathy Hochul brokered a deal to end the prison guard strike in New York, but many officers remain unsatisfied. The agreement requires workers to return by Saturday, with penalties looming for those who refuse. However, because the strike was unsanctioned, individual officers must decide for themselves whether to accept the terms.
The main demand—repealing the HALT Act, which limits solitary confinement—was not met. Instead, the deal temporarily suspends some HALT-related programming but doesn’t address concerns over inmate discipline. Some officers and lawmakers say the offer lacks substance and fails to ensure safety.
With dissatisfaction growing, some officers threaten to quit, worsening staffing shortages. Whether the agreement holds remains uncertain as calls for a full HALT repeal continue.
Auburn corrections officers reject deal, remain on strike
Despite a Saturday deadline to return to work, corrections officers at Auburn Correctional Facility are refusing to end their strike, rejecting the deal brokered between Gov. Kathy Hochul and their union.
They argue the agreement—offering temporary overtime pay adjustments and a 90-day suspension of certain HALT Act provisions—fails to address long-term safety concerns.
Officers demand a full repeal of the HALT Act, which limits solitary confinement, saying it compromises security.
Their continued defiance risks misdemeanor charges and financial penalties. Meanwhile, inmates report restricted movement and services due to staffing shortages.
Deadline set for corrections officers to return to work
The Department of Corrections warned that those who refuse to return could face termination or arrest. While the union didn’t authorize the strike, it is urging officers to resume work as it continues negotiating safety improvements. The National Guard will stay at prisons until staffing stabilizes.
The Saturday deadline looms as tensions remain high over working conditions and mandatory overtime demands.
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