WHEREAS:
The objective of our criminal justice system is to ensure the preservation of a just and orderly society; and
WHEREAS:
AFSCME represents over 40,000 employees who work in prisons and other penal institutions as well as other related support programs across the country; and
WHEREAS:
Corrections, parole, and probation officers staff some of the most critical positions within this complex criminal justice system; and
WHEREAS:
These employees are exposed to a variety of hazardous situations such as overcrowded facilities, reduced staff-to-inmate ratios, and physical attacks by inmates which create unusually high levels of stress; they most often work without adequate recognition, without adequate compensation, without sufficient training, and without a voice in the decision-making process which directly affects their quality of life.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That in recognition of the vital role that corrections parole and probation personnel play in maintaining the stability of our society, AFSCME locals and councils continue to negotiate on behalf of these employees the following rights:
- the right to work in a safe and adequately staffed institution;
- the right to adequate training;
- the right to adequate salary and benefit levels;
- the right to caseload size limitations;
- the right to protection from management abuses;
- the right to continuing educational opportunities;
- the right to employer-sponsored assistance programs;
- the right to clear administrative procedures;
- the right to a cooperative decision-making process;
- the right to indemnification for damages and/or injury; and
- the right to early retirement.
SUBMITTED BY:
Lacy Scott, President/Delegate, Local 3188
Renee Gaudino, President/Delegate, Local 3183
Luis Arellano, Delegate, Council 97
Phoenix, Arizona