North Country Leader

Assemblyman Scott Gray from Watertown recently discussed pressing issues during an "Assembly Update" interview with Assembly Radio-TV Producer Ted Flint. Key topics included the ongoing correctional officer work stoppages, a proposed free college initiative, and progress on the state budget.

Correctional officers in the state have been on strike for several weeks, citing unsafe conditions and staffing shortages as primary concerns. The increase in violence and prolonged working hours, sometimes extending to 16-18 hours per shift, are heavily impacting both uniformed and civilian staff. According to Gray, policy changes made without negotiations are central to the current crisis. The governor's plan to close additional prisons in the current budget is exacerbating recruitment and staffing issues. The National Guard has been called to maintain order; however, Gray stressed that this is a temporary measure since they are not trained correctional officers.

Regarding higher education, Gray, a member of the Assembly Higher Education Committee, evaluated the governor's proposal to offer free college courses to individuals aged 25-55. He emphasized the importance of the state fulfilling its obligation to adequately fund community colleges before launching new programs. The state currently provides only 24% of needed funding for community colleges, which falls short of the mandated one-third, resulting in local communities and students shouldering the deficit.

The state budget process has now moved into a new phase, wherein the Senate and the Assembly will create their one-house budget proposals before negotiating with the governor.

For further details, viewers are encouraged to watch the full interview with Assemblyman Scott Gray.