North Country Leader

Senator Walczyk has called on Governor Hochul to address the needs of correction officers in New York. The senator is urging for improvements such as body scanners, secure mail options from vendors, and the repeal of the HALT Act. These measures have been ignored by Albany Democrats and Governor Hochul, according to Walczyk.

In a statement, Senator Walczyk expressed concern over the situation: “It is no surprise that we find ourselves in this situation. Time and again, Corrections Officers have raised their voices for support and necessary reforms, yet their pleas have gone unanswered. Instead of prioritizing the safety of our COs across the state, Governor Hochul and her colleagues have enacted policies that hinder their ability to do their jobs effectively and safely."

Walczyk emphasized that corrections officers face dangerous conditions daily without meaningful reform: "Our Corrections Officers face life-threatening conditions every day in an environment that has descended into chaos. The absence of meaningful reform has put them in harm's way. It is high time we prioritize their safety and stop coddling criminals."

Throughout his more than six years in the State Legislature, Senator Walczyk has advocated for corrections officers by opposing prison closures, calling for secure vendor programs, ending double-bunking practices, and sponsoring legislation for drug-sniffing dogs in state prisons. He also cosponsors S.2656 to repeal the HALT Act.

Senator Walczyk continues to support correction officers' rights and safety as they perform essential duties within four facilities in his district: Gouverneur, Riverview, Cape Vincent, and Hale Creek.