ELMIRA, NY (WENY) -- The New York State Corrections Officer strike is now in its 15th day. This comes after prison staff were told late last week if they returned to work by Saturday, March 1, they would avoid punishment. However, thousands of corrections officers remain on strike, including hundreds at Elmira Correctional Facility.

Officials with the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision said at least ten striking correction officers have been fired as of Monday, March 3. According to DOCCS, officers who have missed more than ten consecutive shifts are considered to have resigned their position. 

"Striking is absolutely illegal for employees and unions that are covered under [the Taylor] law," said New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray.  "That's because our correction officers, like many of our public sector public safety staff, are essential employees, and their showing up for work is essential for the safety of the State."

The threat of termination of both employment and health insurance benefits from the State has not stopped thousands of officers from striking.  Corrections officers outside of the Elmira Correctional Facility on Monday say they will continue to strike, despite the threats of termination.

"I feel like I’m in the right," said one striking officer, who asked to remain anonymous.  "I'm trying to use this as a teachable moment for my son. I wouldn't do anything different than what I've done ten times out of ten. You know, if I'm in violation of the Taylor Law for fighting for safe working environments, so be it."

State officials say the striking workers are in violation of the Taylor Law, officially known as Civil Service Law 210, because the correction officers are considered essential employees, and their job ensures the safety of New York State.

New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello announced Monday that six of the 38 prison facilities that are striking now have an adequate number of staff returning to duty. That includes Greenhaven, Fishkill, Hudson, Sing Sing, Shawangunk, and Taconic.

Meanwhile, thousands of New York National Guard members continue to provide staffing at 32 other facilities, including in Elmira.

One of the sticking points between the corrections officers and DOCCS is the repeal of the HALT Act, which places limitations on the amount of time inmates spend in isolation and solitary confinement.  DOCCS says repealing the act is beyond the scope of the mediation, as the HALT Act is a law passed by the State Legislature.

The mediation discussions between DOCCS and the NYSCOPBA, the union representing the officers, has resulted in the consent award last week.  This legally binding agreement touches on several aspects including the health, well-being, and safety of corrections officers. However, officers are rejecting the agreement, saying it doesn't go far enough. 

Commissioner Martuscello reiterated the state's commitment to work towards a solution.  "While the consent award is a good starting point to return people to work, it is only the beginning of having a continued conversation with the frontline staff who come to work every day in our correctional facilities," he said.

Officials also said the state has spent around $25 million in response to the strike, with the possibility of the spending $106 million a month if the strike continues.

Striking correction officers are standing their ground, but say they are ready for a resolution.  “When they’re ready to talk, we’re ready to go back to work," said the anonymous officer in Elmira.  "But we’re not gonna go in, that’s a slap in the face that last agreement.”

DOCCS and the DHSES held a joint virtual presser for the media Monday morning. That press conference can be viewed below: