Oneida Times

The debate on early prisoner release in New York has intensified, with Sen. Joseph Griffo vocally opposing the proposal by the governor and DOCCS to release some prisoners early due to staffing issues. Sen. Griffo describes the plan as "outrageous, ridiculous and reckless."

He outlines the current state of the correctional system as a crisis, further exacerbated by correctional officers and civilian staff calling for safer working conditions. Highlighting the urgency of the matter, Griffo insists on the necessity for the governor and the DOCCS commissioner to "review, reexamine and reconsider existing policies and to develop a contemporary reform."

Griffo has proposed multiple solutions aimed at addressing staffing and safety concerns. These include repealing the HALT Act, enhancing the use of equipment like body scanners and drug-detecting technology, and implementing a secure vendor program.

In addition, he urges the governor to provide "second chances" aligned with her signing of the Clean Slate bill. This includes granting amnesty to those who lost their jobs, allowing their return with proper consequences, and addressing pay and disparities faced by National Guard members deployed in state correctional facilities.

He concluded by committing to continue advocating for adequate resources, training, protections, and staffing levels for corrections officers and civilian staff, urging the governor and the DOCCS commissioner to follow suit.