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Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and officers’ union clash over proposal to shut down prisons


Gov. Shapiro’s new state budget proposal includes plans to close two state prisons and two community corrections centers, which has sparked concern among the corrections officers’ union. The Department of Corrections has not yet identified which facilities will be shut down, citing the need to manage costs without compromising safety. However, the president of the Pennsylvania State Corrections Officers Association, John Eckenrode, believes that the decision has already been made without transparency.

Eckenrode expressed concerns about the potential impact on corrections officers’ safety, as closing prisons could lead to overcrowding in remaining facilities. He highlighted the violent conditions in state prisons in 2019 and fears a return to similar levels of violence.

While state prisons are subject to Act 133, which mandates transparency in the closure process, community correction centers are exempt. Eckenrode criticized this lack of transparency, arguing that it denies employees and communities a voice in the decision-making process.

The Department of Corrections stated that a committee will recommend which prisons to close, after which affected staff will be notified with at least three months’ notice. Despite the assurances, Eckenrode believes that the process generates fear and concern among corrections officers, their families, and communities.

Overall, the budget proposal to close prisons and community corrections centers has raised questions about transparency and safety among corrections officers and their union. The uncertainty surrounding the closures has left many stakeholders feeling anxious about the future.

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