DOCCS a offering temporary suspension of HALT Act elements

Corrections Officer Negotiations Show Potential Progress Amid Wildcat Strike

Negotiations between the New York State Correctional Officers and Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) and officials from the State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS), along with representatives from the GovernorS Office, continued Thursday with signs of potential progress. The Governor’s office authorized the deployment of over 3,500 National Guard members wednesday to address the ongoing wildcat strike by corrections officers.

DOCCS Proposes temporary HALT Act Suspension

DOCCS has issued a memorandum to supervisors at facilities impacted by the strike, outlining several proposals aimed at ending the action and ensuring the safe return of corrections officers. Notably, DOCCS proposes temporarily suspending elements of the HALT Act, a progressive criminal justice reform law, under “extraordinary circumstances” where safety risks to staff, inmates, or facilities are deemed significant.

This suspension, according to DOCCS, would remain in effect until prison operations can be safely stabilized. The memorandum further states that DOCCS will immediately rescind the “70/30” memorandum concerning security staffing reviews, previously set for February 10, 2025.

DOCCS Offers Financial Incentives and Continued Dialog

In the memorandum, DOCCS has also proposed several incentives for officers returning to work:

• An overtime rate of two and a half times the regular rate for employees who continue to work at correctional facilities during the state of emergency.
• No disciplinary action for employees who report to work before 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, irrespective of their scheduled shift.

Furthermore, DOCCS assures officers they will continue working with NYSCOPBA President Chris summers and the executive board through mediation to address ongoing concerns regarding recruitment, retention, safety, and working conditions.They pledge to engage with the legislature and other stakeholders to find solutions.

corrections Officers Express Skepticism and Continued Demands

Despite these concessions, some corrections officers remain skeptical, fearing the HALT Act suspension may be temporary and that other demands will not be adequately addressed. Many officers have expressed a desire for further improvements to ensure their safety and well-being within state correctional facilities.

National Guard Remains in Place

The National Guard will remain deployed until DOCCS can stabilize operations, ensure officer safety, and restore public safety in surrounding communities.

Looking Ahead

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing negotiations and a strong desire for resolution from both parties. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the proposed measures can effectively address the concerns of corrections officers and bring an end to the ongoing strike.

How do you see the proposed suspension of the HALT Act impacting the safety and working conditions of correctional officers?

Exclusive Interview: NYSCOPBA President Chris Summers on the Correctional Officers’ Strike and Potential Breakthroughs

Archyde News: Thank you, President Summers, for joining us today. Let’s dive right in. What’s your response to DOCCS’ proposal to temporarily suspend parts of the HALT Act?

Chris Summers: Thank you for having me.The proposed suspension of the HALT Act under extraordinary circumstances is a step in the right direction. Our officers have been expressing concerns about safety and resources, and this move acknowledges the severity of the situation. However, we need to ensure this is not just a temporary fix, and the dialog continues to find lasting solutions.

Archyde News: the Governor’s office has authorized the deployment of the National Guard. How does that factor into your decisions and the strike’s progress?

Chris Summers: the National Guard’s deployment is a sign that the state understands the gravity of the situation. We appreciate the Governor’s commitment to public safety. Though, our focus remains on resolving the issues at the negotiating table. We’re grateful for the Guard’s support but hope it’s not necessary for much longer.

Archyde News: DOCCS has offered financial incentives for officers who return to work. How have your members responded to these proposals?

chris Summers: The financial incentives are a positive gesture, and some of our members have expressed recognition for them. Though, it’s critically important to note that our officers are driven primarily by concerns for their safety and working conditions, not necessarily financial gain. The overtime pay and lack of discipline for reporting to work early are helpful, but the core issues need to be addressed.

Archyde News: Looking ahead,what specific steps would you like to see DOCCS and the Governor’s office take to resolve this strike permanently and ensure corrections officers’ demands are met?

Chris Summers: We’ve been calling for increased staffing,better training,and improved facilities.Now, more than ever, we need a commitment from the state to implement these changes. We need to see concrete plans, timelines, and a sincere effort to engage with us on these issues. Once we see ample progress, we can be confident that the strike has served its purpose and can be ended responsibly.

Archyde News: if you could send a message directly to the corrections officers still on strike, what would it be?

Chris Summers: I want to thank each and every one of you for your unwavering commitment to this cause. We’ve been heard, and we’re making progress. But this is a marathon, not a sprint. We need your unity and strength to keep pushing until we achieve the changes we deserve. Together, we’ll ensure our voices are heard and our wants met.

Archyde News: Thank you, President Summers, for your time and insights.