Gov. Kathy Hochul’s push to lower the minimum age for correction officers to 18 has divided state lawmakers, according to Spectrum News. The proposal aims to address a severe staffing crisis, worsened by the recent firing of 2,000 officers who staged an illegal strike.
The plan would place restrictions on 18- to 20-year-old recruits, limiting their firearm access and inmate interaction. While some lawmakers, including correction officials, support the move to ease pressure on prisons, critics argue it exposes teens to dangerous conditions without solving deeper issues.
Opposition is bipartisan. Lawmakers warn that youthful recruits may lack the life experience necessary for such roles, and suggest systemic reforms are needed to improve working conditions and retention.
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