FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Max Hall
612-247-3725
August 3, 2020
AFSCME Council 5 Opposes Proposed Plan to Close DOC Facilities
“AFSCME Council 5 opposes the Minnesota Department of Corrections’ proposed plan to close the Togo and Willow River correctional facilities,” said Council 5 Executive Director Julie Bleyhl. “The Challenge Incarceration Program remains one of our state’s most effective programs to reduce recidivism and prison re-entry. The Legislature has historically failed to provide funding that would protect correctional officers, staff, and the public. These closures alone could potentially lay off over 100 correctional officers and staff if they cannot find employment within other areas in the DOC.
“These workers are on our front lines and deserve our thanks and admiration for their work, not lay-off notices.
“We will continue to mobilize our members to take action to prevent further layoffs or service delays. Public safety and facility security are our members’ number one goal.”
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