Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan (R,C-Manchester) today announced his appointment to the New York State Assembly Committee on Correction, where he will work to strengthen public safety, support corrections officers and ensure accountability within the state’s correctional system.

The 131st Assembly District is home to the Cayuga Correctional Facility, and neighboring the district are the Auburn Correctional Facility and Five Points Correctional Facility. Across our great state, correctional facilities employ thousands of correction officers and staff, making the strength and stability of the state’s correctional system vital. 

“As a representative of communities that are deeply connected to our correctional facilities, I see firsthand the dedication and sacrifice of our correction officers and their families,” said Gallahan. “Right now, New York is facing a serious staffing crisis. According to recent comments from the Commissioner of the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, the state is approximately 4,500 correctional officers short. That shortage puts officers, staff and inmates at risk.”

New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) President Chris Summers said, “Since Assemblyman Gallahan has demonstrated unwavering support for the men and women of NYSCOPBA. We applaud his appointment to the New York State Assembly Correction Committee. We look forward to the opportunity to work with him as we continue to address the critical issues facing our members.”

The Assembly Committee on Correction oversees legislation and policy related to state prisons, parole and the overall administration of correctional services. Gallahan said his focus will include addressing staffing shortages, improving safety conditions for officers and inmates and pushing back against policies that undermine the stability of correctional institutions.

“Our corrections officers deserve real support, safer working conditions and policies that prioritize order and accountability,” Gallahan added. “Public safety starts with strong, secure facilities and the men and women who keep them running. I will be a strong voice for them and for the communities that support these facilities.”