Thousands of New York correction officers face potential fines of $442 per day and imprisonment for continuing their illegal strike despite court orders. The Attorney General’s Office has filed contempt charges as officials struggle to end the work stoppage, which has disrupted 38 of the state’s 42 prisons.
Officers demand safer working conditions, an end to 24-hour shifts, and the repeal of the HALT Act. Mediation efforts failed, and DOCCS has begun firing some striking employees. Meanwhile, the strike has cost taxpayers $25 million so far, with estimates reaching $106 million per month.
With staffing shortages worsening, Gov. Kathy Hochul urged officers to return, citing safety concerns. However, hundreds of officers and their families protested in Albany, vowing to stand firm.
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