Governor Jim Justice has announced the end of the state of emergency in West Virginia over staffing issues in the Department of Corrections. This emergency, which began almost two years ago, prompted the governor to call on the state National Guard to help address worker attrition in the state’s jails and prisons. At one point, the vacancy rate in these facilities was over 30%. Over the course of the emergency, more than 730 National Guard members worked in 17 correctional facilities, with 38 members opting to stay on permanently after completion of their assignment.
In response to the staffing crisis, the state also took measures to increase pay for correctional officers and provide bonuses for other jail staff. Last summer, lawmakers approved over $21 million for correctional officer pay increases, as well as two one-time bonuses of $2,294 for non-correctional officer staff such as kitchen workers. Additionally, almost 240 individuals have graduated from the state’s corrections academy since January 2024. These efforts have been part of a broader strategy to address the ongoing challenges facing the state’s correctional facilities.
In a press briefing, General William E. Crane, Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard, expressed pride in the Guard’s role in addressing the crisis. He emphasized the importance of running towards the fire in times of need, highlighting the dedication and commitment of Guard members who have been involved in the state’s correctional facilities. Governor Justice also signaled his recognition and appreciation for the role played by the National Guard in supporting the state’s efforts to address the staffing challenges in its jails and prisons.
Governor Jim Justice had previously declared a state of emergency for West Virginia’s jails and prisons in 2017, underscoring the longstanding nature of the staffing issues in the state’s correctional facilities. By mobilizing the National Guard and implementing legislative measures to increase pay and provide incentives for workers, the state has taken significant steps to stabilize its correctional system. The decision to end the state of emergency reflects the progress made in addressing the staffing crisis and signals a new phase in the ongoing efforts to improve conditions in West Virginia’s jails and prisons.
