Mohawk Valley Counties May Get Relief as State Considers Reimbursement for Housing “State-Ready” Inmates
A new bill introduced by state lawmakers could bring much-needed financial relief to Mohawk Valley counties burdened with the cost of housing “state-ready” inmates—individuals sentenced to state prison but still held in local jails due to transfer delays.
Background: The Costly Burden
Across New York, county jails are overcrowded with inmates waiting for transfer to state facilities. In recent years, the number of these inmates has surged, placing an unsustainable financial strain on local budgets. Mohawk Valley counties like Herkimer and Oneida have seen their resources stretched thin as they attempt to manage both short-term detainees and long-term state recommitments.
What the Bill Proposes
State lawmakers, including Senator Mark Walczyk and Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush, propose reimbursing counties at a rate of$300 per day for each state-ready inmate for the first 10 days. Afterward, the rate would increase to$600 per day, or be adjusted to meet the actual per capita cost, whichever is higher. This is a significant jump from the current reimbursement of just$100 per day.
Local Reactions and Financial Implications
Local officials argue that the higher reimbursement rates will ease the financial pinch, allowing counties to reallocate funds to other essential services such as infrastructure and public safety. Law enforcement and county administrators have expressed relief at the prospect of finally seeing a fairer distribution of state funds. However, the bill’s passage hinges on bipartisan approval and prompt legislative action.
