Gov. Kathy Hochul defended her response to a widespread correction officer strike, emphasizing a need to “redo” the prison system. Her decision to temporarily suspend elements of the HALT Act, which limits solitary confinement, has sparked backlash from advocates. The pause was partly due to severe staffing shortages worsened by the strike.
While correction officers demanded an end to HALT, the suspension primarily addressed logistical concerns. Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers and activists criticized Hochul for undermining reforms meant to improve prison conditions. A legislative committee will review HALT’s implementation, but advocates argue the law was never fully enforced.
Hochul proposed broader prison reforms, including facility closures, expanded oversight, and increased rehabilitative programs. Republican lawmakers, however, accused her of punishing officers by restricting their future employment. Despite controversy, Hochul reaffirmed her commitment to rehabilitation programs once staffing stabilizes.
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