Union for corrections officers says ‘Corrections Omnibus Bill’ will further undermine morale, staffing in prisons

‘The Governor has missed an opportunity to engage in thoughtful, collaborative reform that brings DOCCS and New York State forward’

Press Release, NYS Correctional Officers Police Benevolent Association

ALBANY – NYSCOPBA is deeply disappointed that the Governor has signed the Corrections Omnibus Bill into law.

The death of Robert Brooks was a profound tragedy and meaningful reforms to ensure that never happens again must be made. However, we cannot support legislation that responds to a single tragedy by imposing broad, punitive oversight on thousands of dedicated corrections professionals who had no role in it and who are already under constant surveillance and scrutiny.

The death of Robert Brooks should be a catalyst for smart, collaborative reform, not rushed measures that assume guilt on the part of all correctional staff. The individuals responsible were held accountable through the judicial system — as they should have been. It is unfair and counterproductive to use their misconduct as the basis for sweeping new burdens and disciplinary structures that will undermine morale, complicate operations, and worsen the ongoing staffing crisis.

If New York State is truly committed to improving the correctional system, it must start by listening to the voices of the men and women who serve inside these facilities every day. Our members know firsthand where outdated policies fail and where system improvements are urgently needed. Policies from the 1980s and 1990s are no longer effective for the realities of today’s environment.

By signing this bill, the Governor has missed an opportunity to engage in thoughtful, collaborative reform that brings DOCCS and New York State forward. NYSCOPBA will continue to fight for the rights, dignity, and due process of our members and pursue all available paths to ensure their voices are heard in shaping the future of corrections.