On Saturday, a deal was reached between striking correction officers in New York state and their union to end a weeks-long strike that began on February 17th at the Collins Correctional Facility and spread statewide. The agreement mandates that at least 85% of the officers return to work by Monday, amidst increasing pressure due to loss of medical benefits and potential legal action. The contract assures that returning workers will not face discipline for participating in the strike, restores health benefits, and dismisses any pending lawsuits under the Taylor Act. Governor Kathy Hochul deployed the National Guard to manage operations during the strike, with the National Guard remaining in a support role as staff return.
Concerns within the department include staffing shortages leading to excessive overtime and dissatisfaction with the humanitarian measures under the Long-Term Isolation Confinement Act. The agreement maintains a suspension of certain elements of this law while a review occurs to assess safety risks. It also addresses overtime issues, ensuring corrections officers will continue working 12-hour shifts until staffing levels improve. Those working overtime over the weekend will earn an extra $100 per shift. Committees will be created to identify operational inefficiencies and consider proposals for increasing pay grades for certain positions. The contract stipulates that failure to meet the 85% return threshold by Monday morning could jeopardize the agreement.
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