By Sarah Calams
LANSING, Mich. — A Michigan state representative is fighting for a bill that would give local corrections officers the same benefits as police officers.
News Advocate reported that House Bill 5623, which was laid out by State Rep. Jack O’Malley before the House Commerce and Tourism Committee, would give corrections officers the ability to engage in an arbitration process during local-level disputes. Currently, corrections officers are unable to strike or engage in arbitration.
The bill, according to the report, would provide corrections officers with the same resources as other first responders.
“Corrections officers are hard-working people who deserve the same treatment as other law enforcement officers,” O’Malley said. “These professionals are forced to balance between being the voice of authority, ensuring order within our jails and playing the role of counselor. There should be no question that they deserve the same benefits as our other first responders.”
The bill remains in committee for further consideration.