On June 12, New York state lawmakers introduced a significant package of prison reforms known as the Prison Reform Omnibus Bill (S8415/A8871), set to enhance accountability within the correctional system. Motivated by the recent deaths of two Black men in state prisons, the legislation aims to ensure greater oversight in various reform areas, including mandatory disclosure of video footage relating to incarcerated deaths. This initiative is supported by key figures like Assemblymember Emily Gallagher and Senator Julia Salazar, who emphasize the urgent need for reform to address systemic issues in the prison system.
Each change is supposed to increase oversight in a specific area of carceral reform, should the legislation pass in the Assembly and then get signed by Governor Kathy Hochul.
The bill would require the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to give video footage to the Attorney General's Office within 72 hours of an incarcerated person's death.
Senator Julia Salazar stated that the bill was 'primarily animated and inspired by' the deaths of two incarcerated Black men.
Assemblymember Emily Gallagher called the omnibus 'incredibly important' for holding the prison system responsible.
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