Our Union has received formal notification of the DOC's intent to implement multiple unit closures. The DOC says the closures are necessary to account for the reduced current and forecasted capacity in our state prison system. 

According to the Department, implementation planning has begun. DOC anticipates sharing with us a finalized list of specific units and a projected timeline by June 1, 2021.

We have filed a demand to bargain over the impact of the closures, and we are working with the State to identify bargaining dates.

Our top priorities in negotiations will be to ensure that your contractual and legal rights are protected and to mitigate any impact on you and your family. 

We know this announcement may be unsettling for some of you. Rest assured, we will do everything in our power to protect your workplace rights and to minimize the effects of the closures on the membership. 

UPDATE ON CLOSURES

The Department has provided us with more detail regarding its proposed unit closures. 

Closures of multiple units are being considered at facilities across the State. DOC cites reduced capacity and a shrinking prison population as reasoning for this operational change.

You can read the complete list of units that may be affected in the Department's memo here.

Our Union is committed to preserving jobs. We believe the Department must address insufficient staffing levels, excessive overtime, and a number of other factors before resorting to layoffs. 

We will continue to update you on this issue. Please reach out to your Union Representative if you have questions.