New York officials announced the end of a 22-day prison worker strike on Monday, terminating over 2,000 correction officers who refused to return to work. The state will continue deploying National Guard troops while launching a recruitment effort to restore staffing levels.
At Eastern Correctional Facility in Napanoch, officers gradually returned, though staffing remains below pre-strike levels. The facility, like others, faced disruptions due to the walkout, which began on February 17 over concerns about mandatory overtime, low wages, and unsafe conditions.
Despite failing to meet the 85% return threshold set in the latest labor agreement, the state will still honor key provisions, including increased overtime pay. Certain restrictions under the HALT Act, which limits solitary confinement, will be suspended for 90 days, with a review after 30 days.
National Guard troops will remain on-site to assist operations, and a recruitment campaign is underway to stabilize staffing. Corrections Commissioner Daniel Martuscello emphasized the priority of rebuilding the workforce and ensuring security at facilities like Eastern Correctional.
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