January 8, 2026
Statement by Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning)
“I am outraged after learning that Kathy Hochul’s administration has unilaterally decided to downgrade assaults committed by inmates in our prison system against staff. Under new guidelines, assaults will be re-classified as ‘harassment’ and ‘disruptive behavior.’ Make no mistake, this is just a PR and election year move, allowing the governor to pretend she has control of the prison system by saying assaults are down. The fact of the matter is, she does not have control of the rising violence and dangerous situation inside our correctional facilities. And despite her insulting attempt to change the definition of assault, this will do nothing to reduce the actual rising level of assaults plaguing correctional officers and staff. This is just another slap on the face to our brave correctional officers who work a dangerous job to keep us safe. If Governor Hochul truly wants to reduce the number of inmate assaults on staff and other inmates, she would repeal the HALT Act and truly show our correctional officers New York state has their backs instead of stabbing them in the back with this politically motivated unilateral action. Gov. Hochul, do the right thing and reverse this insulting and dangerous decision.”
Assemblyman Palmesano represents the 132nd District, which includes Schuyler County, Yates County and Parts of Chemung County, Seneca County and Steuben County. For more information about Assemblyman Palmesano. Please follow him on Facebook.
