Posted: | June 23, 2017 10:25 AM |
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From: | Representative Gerald J. Mullery |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | State Facility Closure Protocol |
In the near future, I will be introducing legislation to create a more transparent and unified process for closing our state-run facilities. As you know, earlier this year the Department of Corrections announced their decision to close SCI Pittsburgh by June 30. Deviating from their original plan to close two state prisons, this timeframe to uproot 2,500 inmates and state employees has nonetheless been a rushed process that has largely ignored input from the community, local prison workers and the economic impact on the Pittsburgh area. While it is reasonable to implement such cost-saving initiatives during our current budget shortfall, it is imperative that there be a timely protocol in place to allow the public and all stakeholders to voice their opinion. My legislation would create a legislative review process that includes public hearings and a detailed timeline when there is any attempt to close a state facility employing more than 25 state employees. Specifically, that timeline is as follows:
To use this year’s prison closure as an example, under my legislation, SCI Pittsburgh would not close until January 2018 instead of the proposed date of June 30, 2017. I believe this bill provides for a fair and timely process that would allow for input from the public and stakeholders across the state. Please join me in co-sponsoring this very important legislation. |