Arthur Wheaton

Director of Labor Studies, ILR School

Art Wheaton , director of labor studies at Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations, says the striking workers should have realized discipline could result from violating the no strike clause.

Wheaton says:

"The correction officers strike is an example of failure at the bargaining table or the communications between the union and the members. Under the New York Taylor Law, public sector workers are not allowed to strike. In this case, the union did not go on strike, individual members chose to walk out without union approval. It must have been known they were violating the no strike clause and discipline could result.

"The union and DOCCs called in a mediator who brokered an agreement. Again, the agreement was between union and management (not individuals on strike). There were guarantees of reinstatement of lost benefits and gains of workers’ demands but many still chose to remain on strike.

"It is very unfortunate to fire thousands of workers when there is already a shortage. After multiple attempts to reach an agreement, calling in the national guard and mediation; the Governor felt justified in upholding the Taylor Law and collective bargaining agreement. Hopefully this will not derail attempts to make corrections facilities safer for all."