Consent Award Reached to End Prison Strike Across NYS
A Tentative Deal Has Been Reached
After four days of negotiations between a representative for the striking correction officers and officials from the Hochul administration, it appears a tentative deal has been reached to end the prison strike taking place across New York State.
Gov. Kathy Hochul Announces the End of the Strike
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday night that a consent award was reached to end the work stoppage.
The Terms of the Agreement
In a statement, she said in-part: “Working with a mediator, we have reached a consent award to address many of the concerns raised by correction officers, put DOCCS back on the path to safe operations, respect the rights of incarcerated individuals and prevent future unsanctioned work stoppages.”
Background on the Strike
The striking correction officers have been calling for safer working conditions and for the HALT Act, which restricts use of solitary confinement, to be repealed. On Wednesday, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said he understands their concerns for safety but questions if putting their fellow coworkers at risk was the right thing to do.
“You feel unsafe, so I don’t know if making others feel unsafe was the answer,” he said. “I get it. They’re not happy, they want changes, but I just don’t think this was the way to get it done.”
The Strike’s Timeline
The strike began 11 days ago. Mediator Martin Scheinmann released a statement that outlines the terms agreed to by DOCCS and NYSCOPBA.
More News from NEWS10
- Albany Academy, Holy Names advance to Class A semifinals
- CBA’s Lucius Anderson makes commitment to Yale official
- Broadalbin-Perch rolls in quarterfinal victory
- Scotia-Glenville upsets Schalmont in overtime
- Three Section 2 wrestlers take gold at first-ever NYSPHSAA Girls Wrestling Championships
Conclusion
The consent award reached between the striking correction officers and the Hochul administration brings an end to the prison strike across New York State. The agreement aims to address the concerns of correction officers, ensure safe operations at DOCCS, and respect the rights of incarcerated individuals. This development is a positive step forward for all parties involved.
FAQs
* What is the HALT Act?
+ The HALT Act is a law that restricts the use of solitary confinement in New York State prisons.
* What are the concerns of the striking correction officers?
+ The striking correction officers are calling for safer working conditions and the repeal of the HALT Act.
* How long did the strike last?
+ The strike began 11 days ago.
* What is a consent award?
+ A consent award is an agreement reached between parties to address their concerns and end a work stoppage.
