AFSCME opposes proposed DOC closures
Governor Josh Shapiro recently announced plans to close four facilities in the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.
Those facilities include State Correctional Institution Rockview and Quehanna Boot Camp, as well as Community Corrections Centers Progress and Wernersville.
In addition to the threat this poses to the job security and livelihoods of so many workers in corrections, including many AFSCME members, such a decision could jeopardize public safety and devastate local communities that depend heavily on these jobs.
For these reasons, Council 13 stands opposed to this decision and is working with local union leaders to make AFSCME members’ voices heard throughout this process. The Commonwealth plans to hold a 90-day open comment period, during which they will be hearing from us.
Our union is coordinating efforts with the Pennsylvania State Corrections Officers Association (PSCOA) and Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 668, who also represent workers impacted by this, to work toward the best possible outcome for every member.
AFSCME has sent a letter to DOC Secretary Laurel Harry demanding impact bargaining over this matter.
We will continue to keep impacted members informed and offer every opportunity to get involved in our efforts to stop or mitigate any harmful outcomes from this decision.