The Minnesota Senate's Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety convened on September 25, 2025, to discuss significant changes within the Department of Corrections (DOC) as it prepares for a major operational downsizing at the Stillwater facility. The meeting highlighted the DOC's plan to achieve a savings target of $30 million in 2026, necessitating a 50% reduction in both the facility's population and staffing levels.

The DOC reported that by October 1, the number of staff at Stillwater will decrease from 567 to 231. To facilitate this transition, the department has engaged in extensive discussions with labor partners, particularly the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). Since mid-May, the DOC has held 93 meetings with union representatives to develop Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) that allow for staff transfers between facilities, addressing the challenges posed by existing labor contracts.

In an effort to support affected employees, the DOC has organized resource fairs, career fairs, and job clinics, ensuring that staff are aware of their options for continued employment, whether within the DOC or with other employers. So far, over 95% of Stillwater staff have chosen to remain with the department, although 32 employees have received layoff notices. The DOC emphasized its commitment to retaining as many staff as possible, particularly those in good standing.

As part of the transition, 149 staff members are set to transfer to nearby facilities, including Oak Park Heights and Lino Lakes. These transfers are designed to maintain operational stability and ensure that the remaining staff can effectively support the incarcerated population during this period of change.

The DOC has implemented several measures to ensure safety and support during the transition, including allowing facilities to operate at full staffing levels and providing transitional leave for transferring officers. The department aims to create a welcoming environment for new staff and maintain a high level of expertise across its facilities.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting underscored the DOC's focus on minimizing layoffs while navigating the complexities of staffing changes and operational adjustments. The outcomes of these efforts will have a direct impact on the community, as the DOC works to balance fiscal responsibility with the needs of its employees and the incarcerated population.