New York Prisons Begin Early Inmate Releases to Address Severe Staffing Shortages

The state prison system remains short-staffed by thousands after firing 2,000 striking correctional officers, prompting early releases of inmates convicted of minor crimes.

Over 2,000 correctional officers were fired after a 22-day illegal strike protesting poor working conditions, leaving New York prisons critically understaffed.
The Department of Corrections is releasing inmates within 15 to 110 days of their approved release date, excluding those convicted of serious crimes like murder or arson.
Governor Kathy Hochul signed an executive order barring the rehiring of fired officers, while National Guard troops remain deployed to support prison operations.
Critics, including Republican lawmakers, are calling for the repeal of the HALT Act, which limits solitary confinement and is blamed for increased violence in prisons.
Prison leaders have been directed to submit lists of eligible inmates for early release by April 4, with ongoing approvals to follow.