How the Taylor Law Bans Correction Officers from Striking
The Taylor Law Prohibits Public Employees from Striking
The Taylor Law prohibits public employees from striking, so workers cannot leave their posts or encourage their colleagues to do so without formal permission from the union. This law applies to correction officers, who are subject to a strike ban.
Deducting Pay for Unauthorized Strikes
The Taylor Law also provides for the deduction of up to twice a worker’s daily pay rate for every day that they are on strike. This provision is designed to discourage unauthorized strikes and to encourage workers to comply with the law.
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Despite the law’s restrictions, some correction officers have chosen to go on an unauthorized strike. However, the law is clear: any worker who participates in an unauthorized strike can be subject to disciplinary action, including fines and termination.
Hochul’s Response to the Unlawful Strike
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that she is prepared to send the National Guard to state-run prisons where staff have started an unauthorized strike. She has directed her legal team to work with Attorney General Letitia James on the next steps, from a legal perspective, under the Taylor Law.
DOCCS Commissioner’s Response
DOCCS Commissioner Daniel Martuscello has also weighed in on the situation, stating that the strikes have led to the cancellation of visitations at 25 prisons, including Attica, Auburn, Clinton, Collins, Eastern New York, Elmira, Five Points, Upstate, and Wende correctional facilities.
Union’s Response
A spokesperson for the union that represents correction officers, NYSCOPBA, has stated that they do not back the current strike action. The union has also expressed concerns about the impact of the strike on the safety of correctional officers, inmates, and the public.
FAQs
- Q: What is the Taylor Law?
A: The Taylor Law prohibits public employees from striking and provides for the deduction of up to twice a worker’s daily pay rate for every day that they are on strike.
- Q: What are the consequences of participating in an unauthorized strike?
A: Workers who participate in an unauthorized strike can be subject to disciplinary action, including fines and termination.
- Q: Has the Governor responded to the strike?
A: Yes, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that she is prepared to send the National Guard to state-run prisons where staff have started an unauthorized strike.
- Q: Has the union weighed in on the strike?
A: Yes, a spokesperson for the union that represents correction officers, NYSCOPBA, has stated that they do not back the current strike action and have expressed concerns about the impact of the strike on the safety of correctional officers, inmates, and the public.
Conclusion
The Taylor Law is a vital tool in maintaining public safety and ensuring that essential services are not disrupted by unauthorized strikes. While some correction officers have chosen to disregard the law and participate in an unauthorized strike, the law is clear: any worker who participates in an unauthorized strike can be subject to disciplinary action, including fines and termination. The Governor and DOCCS have taken steps to address the situation, and the union has expressed concerns about the impact of the strike on the safety of correctional officers, inmates, and the public.
