HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania State Corrections Officers Association (PSCOA) has strongly criticized Governor Josh Shapiro’s recent proposal to close two state correctional institutions and two community corrections centers. The plan, part of the governor’s 2025 budget, aims to save over $110 million annually but has sparked significant concerns from corrections officers, community leaders, and local advocates.
PSCOA President John Eckenrode issued a forceful statement, warning of the serious repercussions that these closures could have on safety within prisons and the broader impact on surrounding communities. “PSCOA will vigorously fight against this misguided decision. If passed, this proposal will endanger officers and inmates, devastate working families and potentially destroy local economies,” Eckenrode asserted.
The Shapiro administration has yet to name the specific facilities slated for closure, promising a “transparent process” for determining which locations will be affected. However, Eckenrode expressed skepticism over this approach and its potential to create division among communities. “We believe they already know what facilities they want to close, and this dog and pony show will do nothing but pit communities against each other and tear them apart,” he stated.
Safety Concerns and Rising Pressure on Prison Capacity
Central to the PSCOA’s opposition is the issue of prison safety. Citing historical data, Eckenrode highlighted a troubling pattern of violence during periods of overcrowding, particularly in 2019. At that time, 21 of the state’s 25 prisons were operating at over 90% capacity, with 11 exceeding 100%. This created an environment that Eckenrode described as one of the most violent in his 25 years of service.
Since then, some relief has been achieved through a more evenly spread inmate population. By 2022, only half of the facilities operated above 90% capacity, with just four exceeding their designed limits. For Eckenrode and the PSCOA, closing facilities would reverse these gains and lead to a resurgence of dangerous conditions. “Closing these jails will create potential powder kegs of trouble that many of us thought were a relic of the past,” said Eckenrode.
Economic Implications for Local Communities
PSCOA also flagged the economic consequences of Governor Shapiro’s plan, particularly for rural communities where state prisons often serve as vital economic anchors. Corrections facilities provide stable employment opportunities for thousands of families and support surrounding businesses that depend on prison staff and operations. “In nearly every case, a state prison is the primary economic development engine of its area. Families in these communities deserve better,” Eckenrode emphasized.
The closure of facilities could leave many areas scrambling to recover from the resulting job losses and economic downturn. The PSCOA underscores that such a decision, driven by cost-saving measures, must also account for its human and community-level impact.
Balancing Cost Savings and Public Safety
The Shapiro administration estimates that beyond the $100 million saved annually by closing the two state prisons, an additional $10 million could be cut by shutting down the community corrections centers. While these numbers present a clear fiscal advantage, critics argue that the potential costs in safety and stability far outweigh the benefits.
The PSCOA, which represents over 10,000 corrections professionals statewide, remains steadfast in its opposition to the closures and has vowed to campaign rigorously against the proposal.
Looking Ahead
The governor’s office faces the challenge of balancing budgetary goals with the need to maintain public safety and support local economies. The outcome of this debate will likely shape long-term corrections strategies in Pennsylvania. While Shapiro’s administration continues to outline selection criteria, advocates like the PSCOA will persist in highlighting the risks of downsizing state corrections facilities.
For Pennsylvania, the stakes are high. Decisions made now will determine not only the future of state corrections but also the security and livelihood of communities across the Commonwealth.
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