Staffing shortages among correctional officers at 20 of Georgia’s 34 prisons have reached critical levels, greatly affecting daily operations and safety. The state is facing rising gang influence and violence, with 62 suspected homicides reported last year. Inadequate staffing has allowed gangs to strengthen their presence, leading to inmates making weapons and raising security concerns for staff and inmates. Governor Brian Kemp has proposed a $600 million investment to improve staffing and infrastructure repairs. Critics say many expert recommendations have been ignored. Lawmakers are calling for quick action to address the violence and are urging reforms before the situation worsens in 2025. The Georgia Department of Corrections has 34 state prisons across the state of Georgia, including Hays State Prison in Chattooga County, which house nearly 47,000 felony offenders.