A Year After The Corrections Officer Strike, New York Is Still Failing Its Incarcerated Population | Defector

"The HALT Act mandates prisoners receive seven hours of congregate time outside our cells each day and limits excessive use of solitary confinement."

"Since the work stoppage, things have gotten even worse. Recreation has been reduced to less than an hour per day."

"Local visiting practices prevented spouses from sitting near their incarcerated partners, despite directives explicitly stating that our visitors should be permitted to rest their heads on our shoulders."

"The administration has gone months at a time without operating most programs, including ones that must be completed before our release."

In February 2025, New York State correctional staff began an illegal work stoppage to oppose the HALT Act, which mandates increased outdoor time for prisoners. Governor Hochul suspended the act for 90 days, leading to a return of many officers and the firing of around 2,000. Over 13 months later, prisoners still lack access to recreation and programs. Elmira Correctional Facility has not adhered to rules benefiting inmates, with reduced recreation time and delayed processing of mail and packages, worsening conditions since the work stoppage.

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