Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon released the following statement in response to the ongoing concerns raised by correction officers and employees across New York State’s prison system:
The safety of our state correctional facilities must be a top priority. I have heard from officers- active and retired, family members, employees, and civilian employees and I stand with the dedicated men and women working tirelessly in our correctional facilities and recognize the urgent need to address the critical issues they face: mandated overtime, chronic staffing issues that result in unsafe conditions. These concerns cannot be ignored.
They are committed public servants facing untenable conditions, and their voices must be heard. An independent investigation into New York State’s correctional facilities must occur immediately. This investigation will provide a full, unbiased assessment of the challenges at hand and guide necessary reforms to ensure a safe environment for both employees and those in custody…