East Hudson Valley News

New York State Senator Rob Rolison is spearheading efforts to address rising exposure incidents in state correctional facilities. Alongside Senate Republican colleagues, including Senator Dean Murray, Senator Rolison sent a letter to the State Commission of Correction. The letter calls for a formal investigation into the prevalence and impact of exposure incidents in Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) facilities. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive data collection and analysis of substances linked to these exposures.

The incidents have resulted in individuals requiring hospital evaluation and treatment. Substances found pose serious risks to correctional officers, civilian employees, incarcerated individuals, and National Guard personnel serving in state prisons. Senator Rolison remarked, “Those working in our correctional facilities—officers, civilian staff, and medical personnel—deserve to be protected from dangerous exposure while doing their jobs.”

In his ongoing efforts, Senator Rolison recently amended his fentanyl exposure bill, S989-A. The bill now strengthens protections against exposure, establishing the offense of aggravated reckless endangerment for those who knowingly possess fentanyl or its derivatives, and recklessly expose first responders or correctional officers. This expansion includes civilian employees of correctional facilities and active-duty military personnel serving in these areas.

Senator Rolison noted, “This amendment ensures we are holding individuals accountable who are recklessly possessing substances that are injuring correction officers, civilian staff, and correction officers. By expanding this legislation to include active-duty military personnel, such as National Guard members working in these facilities, we are taking a stronger stance to deter reckless endangerment and protect those who serve our state.”

Further details about S989-A and the letter to the State Commission of Correction are available for review. Senator Rolison remains dedicated to legislative solutions that enhance the safety of correctional staff and first responders throughout New York State.