1. Budget Amendments
On Thursday, Governor Hochul released amendments to her Executive Budget proposal. Most notably, the amendments include an additional $100 million in state aid to cities, towns, and villages. This funding is in addition to the $50 million originally proposed, bringing the total to $150 million in new support for local governments. This significant increase will help municipalities maintain services and support the workforce. Governor Hochul also withdrew a proposal to expand the use of autonomous vehicles, which CSEA opposed.
The State Legislature will finish budget hearings next week and will begin putting together their one-house budgets, which are typically released in early March. As negotiations continue, we will be fighting to ensure that the budget reflects the needs of CSEA members.
2. Volunteer for Tom DiNapoli
New York’s public employees and retirees deserve a Comptroller who will fight every day to protect their hard-earned pensions. CSEA has proudly endorsed Tom DiNapoli because he has done that for decades, safeguarding the retirement fund and making sure your retirement security is never left to chance.
Now it’s our turn to step up. Whether you can knock on doors, make phone calls, talk to coworkers, or help spread the word online, every action matters.
Sign up to help re-elect Tom DiNapoli as New York State Comptroller!
3. Take Action on Tier 6 Reform
CSEA is working to fix Tier 6 by reducing contribution rates to 3% for all Tier 6 employees. For many members, the change would mean an immediate increase in take-home pay. Even for those who may not see an immediate benefit, capping contributions at 3% means you won’t contribute more as you advance in your career.
We’re fighting to get these reforms included in this year’s State Budget, but we need your help! Send a letter to your legislators and tell them to reduce Tier 6 contribution rates in the FY 2027 budget!
4. Court-Ordered Redistricting
A state appellate court has ordered New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission to redraw the boundaries of the 11th Congressional District, affirming a lower court’s finding that the current map is unconstitutional. The decision is expected to reshape the political landscape in both the 10th and 11th Congressional Districts, currently represented by Dan Goldman and Nicole Malliotakis, respectively.
5. Federal CBA Rights
The U.S. Office of Personnel Management issued a memo directing federal agencies to “proceed to terminate or modify collective bargaining agreements.” The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the largest union representing federal workers, has called the guidance “unlawful” and will continue to challenge these actions in court.
6. Tier 6 Rally
On Sunday, March 8, unions will come together at in Albany for a statewide Fix Tier 6 Rally! Hosted by NYS AFL-CIO, CSEA is supporting the event alongside other labor affiliates.
Where: MVP Arena in Albany.
When: Doors open at 10:30 a.m., with the rally running from 12:00pm to 2:00pm
Registration is required! – Attendees will not be admitted without a ticket
Click here to register.
When you register, the website will tell you that you are waitlisted – organizers will process registrations next week and send you your admission information at that time
7. Next Week
The State Legislature will meet on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. CSEA will be providing testimony at the Joint Budget Hearing on Workforce Development and Labor on Wednesday, February 25.
8. 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 our summary of the 2025 legislative session.
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