Earlier today, Governor Hochul released a video message addressing safety concerns at New York State's correctional facilities. The Governor has prepared to deploy the New York State National Guard if the unlawful, illegal work stoppage.

VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

AUDIO: The Governor's remarks are available in audio form here.

A rush transcript of the Governor's remarks is available below:

 My fellow New Yorkers, I want to speak to you today about the illegal and unlawful correction officer strike. These disruptive and unsanctioned work stoppages are jeopardizing the safety of their colleagues, the prison population, and causing undue fear for the residents in the surrounding communities.

I will not allow this chaos to continue. My administration and I have been and will continue meeting with union leadership to resolve this situation immediately. But if it is not resolved, I will send in the National Guard to secure the facilities in question. They've already been deployed and are ready to stabilize the situation.

I understand the incredibly difficult work our correction officers do under challenging circumstances. I have fought alongside their union to improve salaries, benefits, working conditions – indeed, a fair contract was negotiated and agreed to only last March. I've also passed new laws and implemented vital administrative changes to keep contraband out of facilities and protect our officers.

I’ll always advocate for the vitally important work they do. But as Governor, my number one job is to protect the people of this state. And that includes maintaining order in our state prisons. Therefore, I am directing everyone involved in these unlawful strikes to stop these actions immediately. Legal action has already commenced to ensure compliance.

Do what's right. Do your jobs.