Tentative Agreement Doesn’t End Corrections Issues
A Major Development in the Strike between Correction Workers and the State
A consent award was reached after four days of meetings between the union representing correction workers and the state, marking a significant development in the ongoing strike.
The Struggle Continues for Correction Workers and Incarcerated Individuals
Sumeet Sharma, Director of Policy and Communication for the Correctional Association of New York, spoke about the challenges faced by correction workers and incarcerated individuals. He expressed surprise at the strike, given the collective bargaining agreement reached with NYSCOPBA in recent years. However, he emphasized that there are still many issues that need to be addressed.
"We were surprised to see the strike, as there was a collective bargaining that the state reached with NYSCOPBA in recent years that carried them out to the current time period. But that being said, there were a lot of issues and things that need to be addressed," said Sharma.
The State’s Investment in the Capital Region
Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced $400 million in funding to revitalize parts of the State Capitol and downtown Albany. Jeanette Moy, Commissioner for the State Office of General Services, explained the rationale behind this investment. She highlighted the growth of New York’s tech industry, which she believes will lead to an influx of high-tech jobs in the region.
"In a few years, three out of every four semiconductor chips will be built right here within 350 miles of the region, so these are great high-tech jobs for our families, for our children, for our communities," Moy said. "And we want to keep people that are coming to the Albany region. We want families to grow, we want people to have a great experience. So this investment is one we know is going to help Albany further its great trajectory."
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Conclusion
While the tentative agreement may have been reached, the struggles of correction workers and incarcerated individuals continue. The state’s investment in the capital region may bring new opportunities, but it is crucial to address the underlying issues plaguing the correctional system.
FAQs
- What is the current status of the strike between correction workers and the state?
- A consent award has been reached after four days of meetings between the union representing correction workers and the state.
- What are the key issues facing correction workers and incarcerated individuals?
- The Correctional Association of New York has identified several issues, including the need for better wages, benefits, and working conditions.
- What is the state’s plan for the capital region?
- The state has announced $400 million in funding to revitalize parts of the State Capitol and downtown Albany, with a focus on attracting high-tech jobs to the region.
