New York State Senator Mark Walczyk has criticized Governor Kathy Hochul’s recent Executive Order, which he claims penalizes correctional officers who oppose the state’s policies affecting correctional facilities.
Governor Hochul declared a disaster emergency in January 2025 during her Executive Budget address, where she stated, “Your family is my fight.” Senator Walczyk accuses the governor of failing to uphold this commitment to New Yorkers.
“Madam Governor, practice what you preach! Who is fighting for our correction officers’ families? Your actions are fighting against them, making it nearly impossible for these brave individuals to provide for their families you swore to fight for,” said Walczyk. He contends that by depriving correctional officers of job opportunities and health insurance, the governor is not fulfilling her promise.
Walczyk further stated: “The hypocrisy is staggering. While Governor Hochul touts that we are hiring, she simultaneously blocks these newly jobless individuals from applying for the very positions that could support their families.”
He argues that if the governor genuinely cared about families, she would ensure safe working conditions and necessary support for correctional officers instead of fostering a punitive environment exacerbating issues within correctional facilities.
The full details of Executive Order 47 can be accessed online.
