New York Strikes Deal to End 18-Day Prison Guard Walkout

The agreement addresses safety concerns, suspends penalties for returning workers, and temporarily modifies the HALT Act on solitary confinement.

The illegal strike by New York prison guards began on February 17, involving 15,000 workers at its peak and leaving 7 inmates dead under undetermined causes.
State officials reached a tentative deal offering improved working conditions, including limits on mandatory overtime and temporary suspension of parts of the HALT Act restricting solitary confinement.
The agreement rescinds administrative and civil penalties for guards who return to work by Friday but threatens termination and further legal action for those who do not comply.
National Guard troops, deployed to secure prisons during the strike, faced challenges due to inadequate training and resources, raising safety concerns for both soldiers and inmates.
The union representing correctional officers criticized the agreement, claiming it was negotiated without their involvement and does not adequately address members' needs.