Advocates say that some detainees in Rikers Island have signed a petition against the move that will impact more than 200 women and trans individuals and argue that the transfer doesn't address the real emergencies happening inside the prison.

The petition, posted by the Legal Aid Society, says that "this is simply a political maneuver designed to accomplish the closing of Rikers in name only. In reality, inhabitants of Rikers are being further violated, once again starting with the women."

According to Gov. Kathy Hochul, the detainees will receive the same services provided to all individuals currently incarcerated at Bedford and Taconic, and they'll be integrated into the existing populations.

An advocate for detainees tells News 12 that they may also be against the transfer because moving out of the city could make it challenging to communicate with their legal council.

Hochul assures the public that this will help ease staff concerns, capacity constraints and improve safety.