Governor Hochul Ends Correction Officers' Strike, Terminates 2,000 Officers and Implements Employment Ban

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the conclusion of a 22-day “illegal” strike by New York State correction officers, resulting in the termination of over 2,000 officers who failed to return to work. An executive order has been signed to prohibit these individuals from future employment with any state agency.

The strike, which began on February 17—the same day 10 corrections officers were indicted for the death of an inmate, Robert Brooks—severely disrupted the state's correctional system, leading to the deployment of over 6,000 National Guard members to maintain order.

Despite reaching a tentative agreement that addressed concerns over safety and compensation, the required threshold of 85% returning staff was not met, prompting the state to proceed with the terminations.

Hochul emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the strike had cost taxpayers nearly $100 million and created dangerous conditions within the prison system. She reiterated that breaking the law carries severe consequences, including permanent disqualification from state employment.

“My top priority is the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers — and I have been working around-the-clock to end this illegal work stoppage and restore safety in our correctional system,” Hochul said in a statement. “Today, we can finally say this work stoppage is over and move forward towards making our prisons safer for all, supporting our correctional staff, and recruiting the correction officers of the future.”

With approximately 5,000 officers returning to duty, the prison system remains understaffed by about 4,000 officers. Hochul says she is now focusing on aggressive recruitment efforts to fill these vacancies and ensure the safety and efficiency of the correctional facilities.

The executive order not only bars the terminated officers from future state employment but also revokes their peace officer certification, effectively preventing them from being hired in law enforcement positions across the state.

The administration says they are committed to rebuilding the correctional workforce and addressing the systemic issues that led to the strike, aiming to create a safer environment for both staff and inmates.