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Lawmakers split as budget would allow governor to close up to five New York prisons
Summary
Members of the joint budget subcommittee debated a governor proposal to authorize closing up to five state correctional facilities on an accelerated timeline. Lawmakers voiced opposing views on consolidation, staffing, safety and the stalled implementation of the HALT Solitary Confinement Act.
Members of the joint budget subcommittee on public protection debated the governor's proposal to authorize closing up to five state correctional facilities on an accelerated timeline, with lawmakers sharply divided over the move's effect on staff, incarcerated people and county jails.
The dispute focused on whether closure and consolidation would improve efficiency and safety or exacerbate existing staffing and security problems. Subcommittee co-chairs—Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz and State Senator Zellnor Myrie—presided over the discussion but did not put the proposal to a formal vote during the hearing.
Subcommittee member Palmisano said the plan to close five prisons "especially in 90 days, that's an insult and and a slap in the face," arguing closures would hurt morale and…
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