Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan has been appointed to the New York State Assembly Committee on Correction, placing him on a panel that oversees state prison policy and legislation.
Gallahan, a Republican from Manchester, announced the appointment Wednesday.
The 131st Assembly District includes Cayuga Correctional Facility and sits near Auburn and Five Points correctional facilities.
The committee handles legislation related to state prisons, parole and the administration of correctional services.
Gallahan said the state faces a staffing shortage in its prison system. Citing comments from the commissioner of the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, he said the state is about 4,500 correctional officers short.
“That shortage puts officers, staff and inmates at risk,” Gallahan said.
He said his priorities on the committee will include addressing staffing shortages and improving safety conditions for officers and inmates.
New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association President Chris Summers welcomed the appointment.
“Since Assemblyman Gallahan’s election to the State Assembly, he has demonstrated unwavering support for the men and women of NYSCOPBA,” Summers said. “We applaud his appointment to the New York State Assembly Correction Committee.”
Gallahan represents portions of Ontario, Seneca, Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Broome and Chenango counties.
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