1. State Budget Update
State budget negotiations are in their final stages. Two major sticking points in negotiations are the Governor’s proposed changes to the discovery law in criminal court cases, and a proposal to expand involuntary commitment for mental health treatment. Governor Hochul is also pushing to include a provision that would criminalize certain actions while wearing a mask, which has become contentious among lawmakers.
While the budget is due on April 1, at this point it appears we will have a late budget. If the budget is late, they must pass an extender to ensure payroll is processed on time. However, we don’t have any reason to believe there will be delays.
CSEA has been working hard to ensure that our legislative priorities are included in the budget. With the budget process coming to a close, now is the time to act! Contact your elected officials to make sure this year’s budget works for CSEA members:
Tell Governor Hochul: DMNA Firefighters Deserve a Fair Pension!
Tell your Legislators: Stop Violence Against DMV Employees!
Tell your Legislators: Protect Highway Workers!
2. Federal Bargaining Rights
President Trump issued an executive order yesterday instructing several federal agencies to end collective bargaining agreements with their employees. This is the latest in a series of attacks on organized labor and sets a dangerous precedent for public sector unions. The American Federation of Government Employees has sued to stop its implementation.
In a statement, CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan said, “The executive order signed by President Trump is a direct attack on federal workers and their fundamental labor rights. By stripping them of their ability to collectively bargain and organize, this administration is engaging in blatant union-busting. This is not just an attack on federal workers—it’s a first step towards actions against all unions and working people. We stand in solidarity with federal employees and all in the labor movement against this assault on public employees.”
3. Federal Spending Cuts
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services cancelled more than $300 million in grants to New York State this week. This funding was used for crucial public health services, including addiction services and mental health support. These cuts put those services and the livelihoods of people who provide them in jeopardy.
The Trump administration also began the process of closing the federal Institute of Museum & Library Services, which provides $280 million in funds to New York libraries. It’s unclear whether these funds will continue to be provided by other means or if they’ll be cut off completely.
These federal funding cuts, as well as other cuts being proposed, will devastate New York and put CSEA member’s jobs at risk. We’re fighting to prevent further cuts and protect members’ jobs. Sign up now to join the fight!
4. Rep. Stefanik’s Nomination Withdrawn
This week, President Trump withdrew New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik’s nomination for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. The move is an attempt to protect Republicans’ narrow majority in the U.S. House of Representatives ahead of two special elections in Florida. Stefanik will continuing representing New York’s 21st Congressional District.
5. Protect Social Security
The Trump administration – along with Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency have begun shutting down Social Security offices and limiting services that retirees can access from their phones. We need to fight back! Join the fight to protect retirees and the future of Social Security!
6. Next Week
The State Legislature will meet on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of next week. The State Budget is due on April 1.
7. CSEA Legislative Toolkit
We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our legislative successes. Click the icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news. You can also check out the summary of CSEA’s work during the 2023-2024 legislative session.
Tier 6 Reform: |
Updating Civil Service Exams: |
Counting Provisional Time Towards Promotions: |
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| Employee Notice of Records Disclosure: |
Virtual Training for CPS Workers: | Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams: |
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