Assemblywoman Janet L Duprey, who represents several eastern St. Lawrence County towns, says she supports new job opportunities for correctional officers in New York.

Gov. Cuomo recently announced that 103 new correctional officers will be hired in the 2015-2016 fiscal year, citing an increase in prison violence as the reason for additional support at prisons throughout the state.

Duprey, a longtime advocate for the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association, Inc (NYSCOPBA), highlighted the importance of corrections officers and stressed her commitment to their continued safety.

“I’m pleased that the governor recognizes the importance of ensuring our state prisons are well-staffed to provide a safe work environment for our correctional officers,” said Duprey. “I often tour the prisons in my Assembly District, talk with corrections officers and prison officials on a regular basis, and I understand the dangers they face every day.

“These 103 new corrections officers are a step in the right direction to ensure the safety of the men and women who work in our prisons. I hope that the governor will continue to recognize the necessity of adding positions for the protection of prison staff, inmates, and the community. I will continue to work with NYSCOPBA and support legislation that protects the men and women who work in these facilities.”