S225C

The New York State Senate passed a concurrent resolution proposing a constitutional amendment sponsored by Senator Myrie on a 46-14 roll call vote. The measure, Calendar Number 422 (Senate Print 225C), addresses labor practices in state prisons. During floor debate, Sen. Borrello cast one of 14 opposing votes, arguing that characterizing prison labor as slavery misrepresents the nature of inmate work programs. Borrello contended that such programs provide opportunities for incarcerated individuals to work during their sentences rather than remain idle. He further argued that when accounting for the substantial costs of incarceration—including room, board, healthcare, and victim services—inmates would actually owe money to the state if paid minimum wage. Despite the opposition, the resolution secured support from a strong majority of the chamber and advanced to the Assembly.