Niagara Leader

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney of New York's 24th District has spearheaded a resolution in support of corrections officers who are striking for improved working conditions across the state. The entire New York Republican Delegation is backing this initiative.

The resolution has additional sponsorship from Representatives Nick LaLota, Michael Lawler, Nick Langworthy, Andrew Garbarino, and Nicole Malliotakis.

In 2022, the HALT Act was enacted to limit correctional officers' use of solitary confinement as a disciplinary measure. This legislation aimed to ensure safety among inmates but has reportedly led to an 85% increase in attacks on corrections staff since 2019. The number of corrections officers has decreased from 16,305 in 2022 to 13,886 in 2025. Earlier this year, there was an attempt by the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to cut 30% of these positions.

Congresswoman Tenney expressed her concerns: “Corrections officers across the state have had enough of the unsafe working conditions imposed on them by Albany Democrats’ pro-criminal policies, like the HALT Act. I am outraged by Governor Hochul’s failure to prioritize their safety and well-being and her refusal to address serious concerns about staffing shortages and the effects of the HALT Act, which make every New York correctional facility even more dangerous. Enough is enough. Today, I introduced this resolution in the House to demonstrate my unwavering support for these corrections officers as they continue to fight for better working conditions.”