ATTICA, NY (WKBW) — New York State is increasing pressure on corrections officers who are continuing to strike, threatening termination and loss of benefits if they do not return to work.
The strike began on February 17 over what officers claim are unsafe working conditions inside state prisons. Despite a recent agreement with the union addressing key issues, many officers remain on the picket line.
"It's more stressful now than ever before," said the wife of a corrections officer at Attica Correctional Facility, whose husband has been on strike for almost two weeks.
The agreement reached between the state and NYSCOPBA, the corrections officers' union, includes provisions such as no discipline for striking employees and a temporary suspension of aspects of the HALT Act for 90 days.
You can watch our report on the recent agreement below and read more here.
The National Guard has been assisting with staffing levels at the facilities as employees continue their strike.
Some striking officers have received a voicemail warning of health insurance termination, and it also urged them to make alternative coverage arrangements.
"This is a message from New York State Office of Employee Relations. Corrections Officers and Sergeants that do not return to work, will receive health insurance terminations tomorrow. Speak to your dependents about making alternative arrangements for coverage. Termination of employment notices will begin today."
Attica Corrections Superintendent Julia Wolcott informed striking officers that failure to report to work would result in termination. Wives of the striking officers expressed their understanding of the threats but emphasized their spouses' commitment to fighting for better working conditions.
DOCCS Commissioner Daniel Martuscello sent this message on social media:
As the strike continues, corrections officers at Attica face mounting pressure from the state but remain steadfast in their demands for improved working conditions.
7 News has been following this developing story since the very beginning. You can read about the step-by-step developments in our live blog on the strike.
This story was initially reported by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
