Just minutes before the 6:45 a.m. deadline, dozens of Auburn correction officers crossed the street back to work, some escorted by a retiree holding an American flag. Others exchanged hugs before entering the facility, marking a pivotal moment in the three-week statewide prison strike.
Despite an agreement with the state, tensions remain high among Auburn staff. Some officers returned reluctantly, wary of potential consequences, while others continued picketing. The agreement between the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) and the state includes suspending the HALT Act for 90 days, limiting mandatory overtime, and forming a committee to address staffing and safety concerns.
The HALT Act, designed to limit solitary confinement, has been a major point of contention. Under the agreement, its programming elements will be suspended temporarily, and a facility-by-facility review will determine whether reinstating it would pose an unreasonable safety risk. Additionally, a “Circuit Breaker” staffing metric will be used to evaluate emergency situations on high-impact days, potentially suspending HALT provisions further if staffing shortages persist.
Another key provision addresses overtime. Officers working voluntary overtime on weekends will receive an additional $100 per shift, and the 2.5 overtime rate will continue for 30 days. Meanwhile, the National Guard, brought in to help during the strike, will begin a phased drawdown as staff return.
To officially end the strike, 85% of the pre-strike workforce must return. Auburn’s return could be a turning point, but unresolved issues—such as health insurance penalties and the potential for disciplinary action—continue to weigh on officers. The state has agreed to reinstate health insurance for those who return by the deadline, but employees must pay a COBRA rate for the period it was terminated. Furthermore, probationary terminations and resignations tied to the strike will be rescinded for those who comply with the return-to-work agreement.
With officers divided and negotiations ongoing, the strike’s impact continues to ripple through the state’s correctional system.
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