Ongoing Health and Safety Concerns in Correctional Facilities

Introduction
The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (NYSDOCCS) has recently acknowledged persistent and serious health and safety issues within its correctional facilities.

Commissioner's Memo Highlights
On September 23, 2025, the NYSDOCCS Commissioner issued a memo expressing deep concern over the presence of dangerous contraband drugs in correctional institutions. The memo stated that these substances have led to overdose incidents, fatalities, increased anxiety, and violent behaviors directed at both staff and other incarcerated individuals. Additionally, the memo referenced other health implications resulting from these ongoing problems.

Implications of the Memo
The memo serves as an admission that significant health challenges have persisted within the facilities for an extended period. It further indicates that these issues have escalated since the time of the memo, intensifying the gravity of the situation. NYSDOCCS and Governor Hochul have shown they cannot protect their employees nor inmates under their care. These everyday incidents are now commonplace and cannot continue.  NYSDOCCS and Governor Hochul have failed to ensure safety for staff and inmates. These incidents are now routine and must stop.

Call for Accountability
In light of the ongoing health and safety concerns in correctional facilities, we respectfully request that Governor Hochul experience firsthand the working conditions that have resulted from her administration’s policies. Since these policies are at the center of the current challenges, it is only reasonable for the Governor to spend a shift working under the same circumstances that her employees face daily. This would provide valuable insight into the realities and difficulties imposed by the existing policies. Governor Hochul, will you accept the challenge and spend one shift working in these conditions?

Join me in urging Governor Hochul to step into one of these correctional facilities for a shift. Your support can make a significant difference. Together, we can push for reforms that protect the health, safety, and dignity of every individual within our correctional system. Sign this petition to demand immediate action for the sake of our communities and for a more just New York.