Governor Kathy Hochul has opened the door for fired corrections officers (COs) to work for local law enforcement after a strike led to their dismissal, though the ban on state employment remains in place indefinitely. The COs, who participated in a three-week strike, are no longer eligible for state jobs or positions within local governments under an executive order, which will expire on April 9 for local hires. Hochul emphasized the importance of accountability, citing the risks posed by their walkout and the resulting unsafe conditions. Meanwhile, the New York State Sheriff’s Association continues to push for adjustments to the order, as county jails face significant staffing shortages. Republican lawmakers have criticized Hochul’s actions, calling the ban punitive and highlighting its impact on both the fired officers and National Guard personnel filling in for them.
PSUC Research Project
