Legislative and Political Action

1. Hochul Announces Budget Agreement

• $340 million to fund free breakfast and lunch for all K-12 students.

• A bell-to-bell ban on student smartphone use at schools.

• Reforms to the state’s criminal evidence discovery laws.

• A strengthening of involuntary commitment laws.

• Inflation refund checks of $200 for individuals and $400 for families.

The agreement also includes $2 million in staffing for the Office of Mental Health, $110 million to build and renovate child care facilities, and $50 in additional Aid to Municipalities. Despite the governor’s announcement, negotiations on other budget items continue and we don’t expect a final agreement until at least next week.

The legislature passed its 10th budget extender of the session on Thursday, which ensures state payroll and services are funded through next Wednesday. They’ll need to either pass a final budget or another extender by Wednesday to cover state expenses, including pay for state employees.

• A.5912 (Bores): Requires state agencies to conduct exit interviews with employees who resign or retire. This would allow agencies to collect data that can help improve recruitment and retention.

• S.4929 (Brouk): Aligns staff-to-child ratios for home-based childcare providers with those already in place for childcare centers. This would allow CSEA VOICE members to care for additional children.

• S.5997 (Gallivan): Dedicates a portion of the state highway system to Stephen Ebling, a Thruway Maintenance Supervisor and CSEA member who was killed while working on Interstate 90 in 2024.

CSEA will be working to advance these bills and others before the end of the State Legislative Session in June.

3. Federal Budget Updates

President Trump released his FY2026 budget proposal today, covering the federal fiscal year beginning Oct. 1, 2025. The proposal calls for $163 billion, or about 20 percent, in cuts to domestic programs, while boosting funding for the military and border security. This proposal is in addition to the cuts and changes being made through the reconciliation process.

This week, Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives began reviewing and amending their budget and reconciliation bills. However, the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which is tasked with making $880 billion in cuts to health care programs like Medicaid, delayed its markups until the week of May 12.

4. AFSCME Virtual Events

• Wednesday, May 7, 8:00 p.m. ET: Corrections https://mobilize.us/s/lKgNiX

• Thursday, May 8, 8:00 p.m. ET: Health Care https://mobilize.us/s/4WcupM
• Thursday, May 15, 8:00 p.m. p ET: Higher Education https://mobilize.us/s/RzDg76

5. Next Week

The State Legislature will meet on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. They must pass either a budget or another extender by Wednesday, May 7.

6. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. National Work Zone Awareness Week

Stop Violence Against DMV Employees!

2. State Budget Update

The New York State Budget is now 25 days late. According to Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, they are “close, very close.” Legislators returned to their districts after approving an eighth budget extender on Thursday, which runs through Tuesday of next week. They are expected to meet virtually this weekend continue working on a deal. They’ll need to either pass a final budget or another extender on Tuesday to cover state expenses, including pay for state employees.

3. Federal Budget Updates

Next week, Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives will begin marking up their budget and reconciliation bills, which aim to cut $2 trillion in spending and provide $4.5 trillion in tax cuts. “Marking up” is when congressional committees review, amend and vote on proposed legislation, shaping what will eventually be debated on the House floor. The Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees Medicaid and other critical health programs, aims to finish its markup by May 7. The committee is considering $880 billion in proposed cuts, most of which must come from cuts to the Medicaid program.

4. Federal Civil Service Protections

This week, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) published a rule that would reclassify about 50,000 federal employees under a new “Schedule Policy/Career” designation. This new designation would make it easier for federal agencies to fire civil servants for political reasons, including for “refusing to advance the policy interests of the president.” President Trump created this new designation via executive order on April 18.

5. Next Week

The State Legislature will meet on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. They must pass either a budget or another extender by Tuesday, April 28.

6. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Progress on State Budget

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie announced that a deal has been reached between the Governor, Assembly, and Senate on changes to the state’s discovery laws. This issue was a sticking point holding up budget negotiations. With this issue resolved, a final budget deal is expected as early as next week. The State Legislature passed a budget extender to cover government expenses, including pay for state employees, through Wednesday, April 23.

2. Stefanik Mulls Run for Governor

U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, who represents New York’s 21st Congressional District, is reportedly considering a run for governor against Kathy Hochul in 2026. Other potential Republican challengers include U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler, who represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, and Bruce Blakeman, who currently serves as the Nassau County Executive.

3. GOP Moderates call to avert steep Medicaid Cuts

Several Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives have authored a letter to GOP leadership urging them to avoid major cuts to Medicaid in the federal budget. In the letter, signees assert that they “will not support a final reconciliation bill that includes any reduction in Medicaid coverage for vulnerable populations.” However, they leave the the door open for cuts to the federal share of payments in states that have expanded Medicaid, which includes New York. Medicaid expansion is a provision under the Affordable Care Act that allows states to extend Medicaid coverage to more low-income adults by raising the income eligibility threshold. New York Republicans Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), Andrew Garbarino (NY-7), Nick LaLota (NY-1), and Mike Lawler (NY-17) signed onto the letter.

4. Next Week

The State Legislature will need to convene by Wednesday to either pass another budget extender or a final budget.

5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Still No State Budget

While the State Budget was due on April 1, the State Legislature and Governor Hochul have not yet reached an agreement. Negotiations have stalled, as the parties disagree over proposed changes to the discovery law in criminal court cases, expanding involuntary commitment for mental health treatment, and criminalizing certain actions while wearing a mask. Governor Hochul is also pushing a last-minute addition to allow candidates for governor and lieutenant governor to run together in the primary rather than separately.

The legislature passed two budget extenders this week to cover government expenses, including pay for state employees, through April 15. If lawmakers don’t reach a final budget by Tuesday, they will need to pass another extender.

2. U.S. House Passes Budget Resolution

On Thursday, Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed a budget resolution that sets the stage for at least $1.5 trillion in federal spending cuts—including $880 billion from Medicaid—to help offset a $5 trillion tax cut for billionaires. The U.S. Senate passed a similar measure last week. Now that both chambers have adopted a budget resolution, lawmakers will begin drafting legislation to turn these drastic cuts and tax breaks into law. Every Republican member of New York’s congressional delegation voted in favor, while all Democrats opposed.

Join the fight against federal cuts here!

3. Trump Targets Independent Labor Boards

The U.S. Supreme Court has temporarily allowed President Trump to remove National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) member Gwynne Wilcox and Merit Systems Protection Board member Cathy Harris while lawsuits challenging their terminations move through the courts. Federal law protects members of these boards from being fired without cause. These boards play a key role in protecting workers’ rights and insulating civil servants from political interference. Allowing their members to be removed at-will threatens the independence of the boards and weakens enforcement of labor protections.

4. Special Election in Senate District 22

Governor Hochul announced that a special election to fill the vacancy in the 22nd Senate District created by the resignation of Simcha Felder will be held on Tuesday, May 20. The 22nd Senate District covers the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Midwood, Flatbush, Borough Park, Madison, Marine Park, Gerritsen Beach, Gravesend and Sheepshead Bay.

5. Rep. Stefanik Appointed to House Leadership

This week, Rep. Elise Stefanik, who represents New York’s 21st Congressional District, was appointed as Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership. Rep. Stefanik is returning to the U.S. House of Representatives following the withdrawal of her nomination for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.

6. Next Week

The State Legislature is not scheduled to meet next week but will need to convene on Tuesday to pass another budget extender. It is unclear whether they will be in session for the rest of the week.

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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. The State Budget is Late

While the State Budget was due on April 1, negotiations are still ongoing and are expected to continue into next week. The legislature passed two budget extenders this week to cover government expenses, including pay for state employees, through April 7. If lawmakers don’t reach a final budget by Monday, another extender will need to be passed to pay state employees.

We’ve been fighting hard to make sure that this year’s budget supports CSEA members. Some of our top priorities are:

• Protecting DMV license examiners and highway workers against workplace violence.
• Expanding and making permanent the Work Zone Speed Camera program to reduce reckless driving and protect highway workers.
• Securing additional capital funding for SUNY Hospitals.
• Establishing a 25-year retirement plan for firefighters in the state Division of Military and Naval Affairs.

You can find other issues CSEA is fighting for here.

2. Federal Workers Laid Off

The federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced it was laying off 10,000 employees this week, reducing the agency’s workforce by a total of 25% since President Trump took office. In addition, HHS recently canceled grants to states and local governments that funded public health programs and research. This cancelation threatened to lay off 150 CSEA members at Health Research Inc, but CSEA leadership has worked with Governor Hochul to move almost all of these employees to other projects.

The State Legislature will meet on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of next week.

6. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Federal Shutdown Averted

Late last Friday, the U.S. Senate passed a six-month continuing resolution to avert a federal government shutdown just before funding was set to expire. The bill was then quickly signed by President Trump, extending funding through September 30, 2025. New York Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, along with eight other Democrats, voted in favor of the measure. The decision drew sharp criticism from some Democrats, frustrated that it passed without any concessions from Republicans.

2. U.S. Department of Education

On Thursday, President Trump signed an executive order directing the dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education. While the executive order initiates the process, fully abolishing the department requires congressional approval. Dismantling the department could put billions in federal education funding for New York at risk, threatening support for special education programs, low-income school districts, and grants that help thousands of New York students afford college.

3. Rep. Stefanik’s Confirmation

On April 2, 2025, Elise Stefanik, who represents New York’s 21st Congressional District, is scheduled for a Senate confirmation vote to become the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. If confirmed, she will vacate her congressional seat, reducing the Republican majority in the U.S. House to 217 members. With such a slim margin, Republicans could only afford to lose one vote on a simple majority measure without Democratic support. Under New York law, Governor Kathy Hochul has 10 days after the vacancy to schedule a special election, which must take place within 70 to 80 days.

4. State Budget Updates

This week, the State Legislature held their Budget Conference Committee meetings, which kick off final budget negotiations. The final budget is due April 1, which means we have less than two weeks left to ensure that CSEA’s priorities are included in the final budget. Now is the time to act! Write a letter at the links below and tell your legislators and Governor Hochul to support CSEA members in the final budget!

Tell Governor Hochul: DMNA Firefighters Deserve a Fair Pension!

Tell your Legislators: Stop Violence Against DMV Employees!

Tell your Legislators: Protect Highway Workers!

5. Next Week

6. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. One-House Budgets Released

This week, the State Senate and Assembly released their one-house budget proposals. Here is a rundown of where each house stands on some of CSEA’s top priorities:

• Both the Senate and Assembly included an extension of the civil service exam fee waiver for an additional two years.

• The Senate included a 25-year retirement plan for firefighters employed by the Division of Military and Naval Affairs (DMNA). The Assembly indicated their support for the plan.

• The Senate included an expansion of the Work Zone Speed Camera Program, as well as an increase in the number of cameras available to DOT and Thruway.

• The Senate included increased penalties for assaulting highway workers, including those working for DOT, Thruway, and local highway departments.

• The Senate included increased penalties for assaulting DMV employees.

• Both the Senate and Assembly included an additional $250 million in capital support for SUNY Upstate, for a total of $450 million.

• Both the Senate and Assembly included an additional $250 million in capital support for SUNY Downstate, for a total of $700 million.

• Both the Senate and Assembly rejected the governor’s proposal to eliminate the Medicare IRMAA reimbursement for retirees.

Other key provisions include:

• Both the Senate and Assembly included increased funding for school aid, Medicaid, safety-net hospitals, and local government assistance.

• The Assembly includes the governor’s proposal to provide inflation rebate checks to New Yorkers who make up to $150,000 per year ($300,000 jointly), while the Senate narrows the proposal to only apply to seniors.

• The Senate agreed with the governor’s proposal to reduce taxes on middle-income New Yorkers by 0.2%, while the Assembly proposed a 1% tax cut for all New Yorkers other than the highest and lowest tax brackets.

Now that one-houses are out, negotiations begin between the Senate, Assembly, and Governor Hochul to reach a consensus before the April 1 deadline. That means we only have a few weeks to ensure that CSEA’s priorities are included in the final budget. Now is the time to act! Write a letter at the links below and tell your legislators and Governor Hochul to support CSEA members in the final budget!

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 Budget Update

This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a continuing resolution to keep the government funded, narrowly approving the measure by a 217-213 vote. The bill extends existing funding levels through Sept. 30, 2025, with some adjustments, including a slight increase in defense spending and a slight decrease to domestic programs.

The measure now moves to the U.S. Senate, where it will require bipartisan support to pass. Lawmakers face a tight deadline to avoid a government shutdown, with current funding set to expire at midnight tonight.

3. Labor Secretary Confirmed

This week, the U.S. Senate confirmed Lori Chavez-DeRemer as the Secretary of Labor in a 67-32 vote. Chavez-DeRamer is a former Congresswoman and one of only three Republicans who co-sponsored the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. This legislation would eliminate right-to-work laws nationwide, in addition to other pro-union provisions. Several Democrats supported her nomination, citing her past support for pro-labor policies.

4. Next Week

5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Join the Fight Against Federal Cuts!

Congress wants to slash $2 trillion in funding for public services to pay for a tax cut for billionaires.

Our state receives over $90 billion in federal funding to keep hospitals open, schools running, and infrastructure intact. If these cuts move forward, public services will suffer, and CSEA members’ jobs will be on the line.

We cannot sit back while politicians and billionaires play games with our future. Join the fight against federal cuts!

Check out CSEA’s federal action page to access resources and learn more about this campaign.  

2. Federal Government Shutdown

Congress must pass a budget or stopgap funding measure before March 14, or the federal government will shut down. There is no deal in sight, as Republicans are divided over spending cuts, foreign aid reductions, and federal workforce cuts. If no deal is reached in time, non-essential government functions will halt, and federal employees could face furloughs or work without pay.

3. One-House Budgets

The New York State Assembly and Senate are expected to release their one-house budgets next week. Now is the time to contact your legislators on CSEA’s priorities! Click the links below to send a letter to your legislators:

Fair Pension for DMNA Firefighters!

Stop the Assault on Workers!

Protect Highway Workers!

Support SUNY Upstate!

Stand up for Retirees!

4. Next Week

5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. CSEA Provides Testimony

This week, CSEA presented testimony at the Workforce Development and Labor Budget Hearing. In our testimony, we highlighted several of CSEA’s top priorities for this year’s budget, including highway worker safety, fair benefits for DMNA firefighters, extending the civil service exam fee waiver, and recruitment and retention in the public sector workforce. Check out our written testimony and watch our panel presentation.

2. Federal Budget Resolution

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a budget resolution this week that paves the way for deep cuts to federal spending. In a narrow 217-215 vote along party lines, Republicans voted in favor of $2 trillion in spending reductions over the next decade. This includes at least $880 billion in cuts to healthcare spending, which includes Medicaid; at least $330 billion in cuts to education spending, at least $10 billion in cuts to transportation funding, and more.

Next, House Republicans will work to draft spending bills that reflect these cuts. These cuts would have a significant impact on New York, which receives over $90 billion in federal funding to support hospitals, schools, infrastructure, and more. Without this funding, critical public services and CSEA members’ jobs are at risk.

Want to join the fight against federal cuts? Sign up to stay informed about the latest updates in Washington, CSEA’s advocacy efforts, and ways to get involved.

3. Take Action: Protect Workers!

Highway workers are being struck and killed. DMV employees are facing violence and threats just for doing their jobs. These are not just statistics—they are our coworkers, our friends, our union family.

We refuse to accept dangerous working conditions as “part of the job.” Lawmakers must act now to protect those who serve the public every day.

The State Legislature wrapped up budget hearings this week and is now focused on finalizing their one-house budgets. We’re expecting that their budgets will be released in the next few weeks, so we need to act fast!

Stand up. Speak out. Demand action. Their safety depends on it! Click on the links below to send emails to your legislators to demand that they include protections for these workers in the final budget!

Stop the Assault on Workers!

Protect Highway Workers!

4. Lieutenant Governor  

New York Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado has announced he will not seek re-election on Governor Kathy Hochul’s ticket in 2026. This decision follows public disagreements with Hochul, including calls for New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ resignation and urging President Joe Biden to forgo re-election. Soon after, Delgado filed a new campaign committee, indicating that he may mount a challenge to Hochul next year.

5. Next Week

The State Legislature will meet on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

6. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Governor Hochul’s 30-Day Amendments

On Thursday evening, Governor Hochul released amendments to the Executive Budget. CSEA is still reviewing these amendments to determine impact on members. However, the amendments include a provision that would allow the governor to close up to five state correctional facilities within 90 days.

While the governor can already choose to close a state correctional facility at any time, existing law requires a 12-month notice before closure. Closing correctional facilities will have a devastating economic impact, particularly if done on such short notice. Employees will be forced to uproot their lives to continue providing for their families, putting a strain on communities and local businesses that rely on these working people and their economic activity. CSEA is strongly opposed to this proposal.

2. Federal Budget

Early Friday morning, the U.S. Senate passed a budget resolution along party lines, allocating $340 billion in funding for defense and border security. This budget serves as a backup plan in case House Republicans cannot agree on a more comprehensive budget that includes President Trump’s proposed tax cuts and $1.5 trillion in cuts to federal programs. To finalize a budget, both chambers must reach an agreement.

3. Executive Budget Highlight: Waiving Civil Service Fees

Each week, we’ll be highlighting proposals in Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget that are relevant to CSEA members. This week, we’re highlighting the civil service exam fee waiver.

The state has already waived civil service exam fees from July 1, 2023 to December 31, 2025, with an option for localities to opt in. Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget extends this waiver through June 30, 2026. While CSEA is supportive of this extension, we believe it’s necessary to waive the fees for an additional two years, through 2027.

The public sector workforce is in constant competition with the private sector, where a person does not have to pay a fee to apply for a job. Civil service exam fees serve only as a barrier to employment, especially for those who are economically disadvantaged.

4. Take Action

We’re urging all CSEA members to send letters to their State Senators and Assemblymembers in support of our budget priorities. Hundreds of letters have already been sent, but we need to keep pushing! If you haven’t yet, make sure to send a letter at the links below and share with family and friends.

• Equity for DMNA Firefighters: 25-year half-pay retirement for firefighters employed by the Division of Military and Naval Affairs in order to recruit and retain these critical first responders at our state’s Air National Guard bases.

• Protect Highway Workers: Strengthen and expand the Work Zone Camera Program and increase penalties for reckless driving.

• Protect Workers from Assaults: Stiffer penalties against those whose assault transportation workers at DOT, DMV, and Thruway.

• Support SUNY Upstate: $450 million in capital funding to build a new emergency department that will better serve the community.

• Support SUNY Downstate: $450 million in capital funding and $100 million in operating funding to keep SUNY Downstate open and operational.

• Support Safety-Net Hospitals: Additional money for hospitals that provide critical care to vulnerable populations, ensuring they remain open and accessible.

• Stand Up for Retirees: Reject the governor’s proposed elimination of the IRMAA reimbursement, which would increase costs on retirees.

5. Next Week

6. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Federal Budget Cuts

This week, House leadership instructed legislative committees to find at least $1.5 trillion in spending cuts over the next decade. The Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees health care spending, and the Education and Workforce Committee, which manages federal funding for education and child care, are tasked with identifying a combined $1.1 trillion in reductions. These funding areas provide critical financial support to New York’s budget, and any cuts would significantly impact programs and services for the state, local governments, and school districts.

2. Take Action on CSEA’s Budget Priorities

CSEA is working hard to make sure our priorities are included in the final state budget—but we need your help! Use the links below to write a letter to your State Legislators and urge them to stand with CSEA on these critical issues. Your voice can make a real difference!

• Equity for DMNA Firefighters: We’re asking the legislature to include a 25-year half-pay retirement for firefighters employed by the Division of Military and Naval Affairs to get them closer to pension equity with other professional firefighters.

• Protect Highway Workers: We’re working to strengthen and expand the Work Zone Camera Program and increase penalties for reckless driving.

• Protect Workers from Assaults: We’re seeking stiffer penalties against those whose assault transportation workers at DOT, DMV, and Thruway.

• Support SUNY Upstate: We’re fighting for $450 million in capital funding to build a new emergency department that will better serve the community.

• Support SUNY Downstate: We’re advocating for $450 million in capital funding and $100 million in operating funding to keep SUNY Downstate open and operational.

• Support Safety-Net Hospitals: We’re pushing for more money for hospitals that provide critical care to vulnerable populations, ensuring they remain open and accessible.

• Stand Up for Retirees: We’re calling on the state to reject the governor’s proposed elimination of the IRMAA reimbursement, which would increase costs on retirees.

3. Executive Budget Highlight: SUNY Hospitals  

Each week, we’ll be highlighting proposals in Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget that are relevant to CSEA members. This week, we’re highlighting SUNY Hospital funding.

Governor Hochul’s budget included $200 million in capital funding for SUNY Upstate. This funding will be used to fund a new emergency department, an expanded burn center, and additional operating rooms. CSEA is urging the State Legislature to include an additional $250 million, for a total of $450 million. The hospital needs this additional funding to complete these projects. These upgrades are necessary to ensure that SUNY Upstate can meet the growing demand for services, especially driven by the incoming arrival of Micron’s chip fabrication facility to the region.

Governor Hochul’s budget also included $450 million in capital funding and $100 million in operating assistance for SUNY Downstate. CSEA is supporting the governor’s proposal, as this funding is critical to stabilizing SUNY Downstate’s finances and improving hospital facilities, which will allow the hospital to remain open and able to deliver essential healthcare services.

4. CSEA Public Protection Testimony

CSEA submitted written testimony to the Joint Legislative Budget Hearing on Public Protection that was held this week. In it, we urge the State Legislature to establish a 25-year retirement plan for DMNA firefighters. You can read our full testimony here.

5. Next Week

6. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Executive Budget Highlight: Tax Relief and Revenue Measures

Each week, we’ll be highlighting proposals in Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget that are relevant to CSEA members.

The governor has included several proposals to provide financial relief to middle class families while raising revenues, including:

• A reduction in tax rates paid by married couples with incomes up to $323,200 who file jointly, for heads of households with incomes up to $269,300, and for single taxpayers and married taxpayers who file separately with incomes up to $215,400. The tax rates would be reduced in two phases: an initial rate cut applicable for tax year 2025 and a second rate cut beginning in tax year 2026.
• An inflation rebate that would send a $500 check to families making less than $300,000 per year and a $300 check to individuals making less than $150,000.
• An increase to the Child Tax Credit – up to $1,000 per child under age four and up to $500 per child age four through 16. This is an increase from the current maximum of $330 per child.
• An extension of the personal income tax surcharge on high earners, which is set to expire next year. This affects individuals earning over $5 million annually and is meant to maintain state revenue levels to fund essential services and programs.

2. CSEA Transportation Testimony

CSEA submitted written testimony to the Joint Legislative Budget Hearing on Transportation that was held this week. In it, we focused on including provisions in the final budget to enhance work zone safety and protect our union members from violence. You can read our full testimony here.

3. Cabinet Confirmations – Russell Vought

Since last week, the U.S. Senate has confirmed five additional cabinet nominations, for a total of 13 confirmed appointments:

• Pam Bondi as Attorney General
• Scott Turner as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
• Chris Wright as Secretary of Energy
• Doug Collins as Secretary of Veterans Affairs
• Russell Vought as Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB)

Russell Vought’s confirmation raises significant concerns for the public sector workforce. As a key figure behind Project 2025, Vought has supported policies like the reinstatement of “Schedule F,” which would weaken civil service protections and allow political appointees to replace experienced professionals. Vought has also advocated for significant budget cuts to non-defense discretionary programs, aiming to reduce government spending on social services, health programs, and public infrastructure.

Here are some examples of Vought’s perspective on civil servants, taken from his chapter in Project 2025:

• “The next Administration should try to limit the number of detailees [civil servants] to ensure more direct presidential control.” [p.38]
• Believes agencies should have a “minimum number of career detailees, who are selected and vetted politically and report directly to political staff.” [p.51]
• Wants to “replace all essential detailees [civil servants] with staff aligned to the new President’s priorities.” [p.52]

4. Next Week

5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Federal Funding Freeze

This week, The White House sent a memo that directed federal agencies to pause all grants, loans, and financial assistance programs that flow to states. The implications of this directive were immense, and though the details were murky, it would have potentially suspended federal funding for state and local government programs. A federal judge promptly halted the directive, and the White House later rescinded the memo. However, President Trump and his press team are insisting that the directive remains in effect, creating chaos and confusion for states, including New York.

New York depends on federal funding, which makes up about 36% of the total state budget. With this directive looming, funding for schools, hospitals, infrastructure, and other spending that supports CSEA members’ jobs are all uncertain. CSEA will be monitoring federal actions closely and working with our AFSCME partners to fight this funding freeze.

2. Cabinet Confirmations

The U.S. Senate has confirmed eight of Trump’s Cabinet nominations, including:

• Secretary of State Marco Rubio
• CIA Director John Ratcliffe
• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
• Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem
• Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent
• Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy
• Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin
• Interior Secretary Doug Burgum

Several other nominees have been voted out of committee and await a vote on the Senate floor.

3. Executive Budget Highlight: Work Zone Safety

Each week, we’ll be highlighting a proposal in Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget that is relevant to CSEA members.

The governor has proposed a package to enhance the existing Work Zone Speed Camera Program by:

• Making the program permanent.
• Expanding it to the New York State Bridge Authority and the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority.
• Increasing penalties to $125 for a second violation and $175 for a third or subsequent violation within an 18-month period.

CSEA is supporting this proposal, but is also advocating to improve work zone safety further by:

• Expanding the number of authorized work zone speed cameras from 20 to 40 for the Department of Transportation and 10 to 20 for the Thruway Authority.
• Suspending the registration of any vehicle that has received four or more work zone speed camera tickets in an 18-month period.
• Increasing penalties for speeding in a non-camera work zone and when a driver fails to move over when legally required.

CSEA will be submitting testimony in support of these proposals to transportation budget hearing on Thursday, February 6.

4. Next Week

5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Executive Budget

Governor Hochul has released her Executive Budget. The budget proposes extending the tax surcharge on upper income earners for five years, reducing taxes on people making up to $269,300 a year ($323,200 jointly), and giving $3 billion in inflation rebates to families making up to $300,000 and individuals making up to $150,000. She also raises the child tax credit to $1000 for children age 0-4 and $500 for ages 4-16. The budget also includes:

• Waiving state civil service exam fees through June 2026.
• Extending the NY HELP program for 1 additional year.
• Creating 100 new state operated inpatient forensic psychiatric beds in New York City
• Making the work zone speed camera program permanent and increases penalties for violators who receive their 2^nd and 3^rd tickets in an 18-month period.
• Proposing $450 million for SUNY Downstate to transform the hospital (this is in addition to the $300 million from last year for the same project), plus an additional $100 million for operations to keep the hospital open.
• Proposing $200 million for SUNY Upstate to build a new emergency department.
• Providing a $1.7 billion increase in education funding
• Providing $50 million in additional state aid for local governments
• Increasing the penalty for assaulting a DMV motor vehicle license examiner, motor vehicle representative, and highway worker (state and local government) from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony.
• Providing 2.1% COLA for not-for-profit human services workers

Check out CSEA’s full summary of the Executive Budget here.

2. President Trump Sworn In

President Donald Trump was sworn in this week. As we always do, CSEA will closely monitor executive orders and legislative actions. A recently signed executive order strips many federal civil servants of job protections by creating a new employment category called “Schedule F.” While this does not directly impact CSEA members, this does impact our AFSCME union family members, and it is a concerning attack on civil service. While we will continue to wait for the President and Congress to begin working on their respective agendas, CSEA stands ready for any challenges that will affect our union members’ rights, working conditions or benefits.

3. The State Budget Process

The New York State budget process can be confusing. Check out CSEA’s video on how the process works and learn what to expect as we approach the April 1 budget deadline:

4. Next Week

5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. State of the State

On Tuesday, Governor Hochul gave her 2025 State of the State address. The speech unveiled her priorities for FY26 Executive Budget, including:

• An “inflation refund” that would send a $500 check to families making less than $300,000 per year and a $300 check to individuals making less than $150,000.
• Increasing the Child Tax Credit – up to $1,000 per child under age four and up to $500 per child age four through 16. This is an increase from the current maximum of $330 per child.
• Reducing income taxes for joint filers making up to $323,200 per year.
• Extending the NY HELP Program for one additional year.
• Universal free school meals for all K-12 students in schools that participate in the federal school lunch program.
• Providing free community college for New Yorkers aged 25-55 studying in certain-high demand fields.
• $10 million for family childcare programs to cover small renovations and repairs.

More details will be available when the Executive Budget is released on January 21.

2. Tax Cap for School Districts

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that the property tax levy growth for New York’s school districts and 10 cities will remain capped at 2% for the fourth year in a row. The tax cap limits annual tax levy increases to the lesser of the rate of inflation or 2%.

3. Trump Cabinet Picks

Confirmation hearings have begun for President-elect Trump’s cabinet picks. The U.S. Senate held hearings for the following appointees this week:

• Pete Hegseth, nominated for Secretary of Defense.
• Marco Rubio, nominated for Secretary of State.
• Pam Bondi, nominated for Attorney General.
• Scott Bessent, nominated for Secretary of the Treasury.
• Lee Zeldin, nominated to lead the Environmental Protection Agency.
• Doug Burgum, nominated for Secretary of the Interior.
• Scott Turner, nominated to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
• Kristi Noem, nominated for Secretary of Homeland Security.

The U.S. Senate will vote on these appointments in the coming weeks.

4. Next Week

5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Governor Hochul’s Priorities

Governor Hochul has unveiled several policy priorities that she intends to include in the Executive Budget:

• An “inflation refund” that would send a $500 check to families making less than $300,000 per year and a $300 check to individuals making less than $150,000.
• An increase to the Child Tax Credit – up to $1,000 per child under age four and up to $500 per child age four through 16. This is an increase from the current maximum of $330 per child.
• $110 million to build new child care facilities and repair existing sites.
• $100 million to spur starter home construction and assist first-time homebuyers with down payments.
• Providing free school breakfast and lunch to all K-12 students.

CSEA will be watching closely as Governor Hochul unveils additional proposals prior to her 2025 State of the State address on January 14.

2. Legislative Session Begins

The 2025 New York State Legislative Session kicked off this week on Wednesday, January 8. Andrea Stewart-Cousins was re-elected to Majority Leader of the State Senate, while Carl Heastie was re-elected to Speaker of the State Assembly. In their opening day speeches, both leaders highlighted the need to focus on affordability in the 2025 legislative session.

3. Social Security Fairness Act

5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. LOADing Act Signed

Governor Hochul signed S.7543/A.9430, the Legislative Oversight of Automated Decision-Making in Government (LOADing) Act. This new law limits and regulates how state agencies can use Artificial Intelligence (AI) when making decisions and requires disclosure by any agencies using such technology. Most notably, this bill ensures that public employees are not displaced as a result of these technologies. This is a first-in-the-nation law that ensures that the use of AI respects the invaluable contributions of dedicated public sector workers.

2. Government Shutdown Averted

President Biden has signed a stopgap measure to avert the government shutdown that was set to take effect on Saturday, December 21. The funding bill adds $100 billion in disaster aid and $10 billion in assistance to farmers, while extending all other federal funding at current levels through March 14, 2025. Notably, this measure did not include any provisions to raise the debt ceiling, which was supported by President Trump. In March, Congress must pass a budget or another stopgap measure to avoid a shutdown.

3. Speaker Election

5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:		Virtual Training for CPS Workers:		Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. CPS Virtual Training

Governor Hochul signed S.6357/A.7341, which allows Child Protective Services caseworkers to complete certain training requirements, excluding the annual in-service training requirement virtually, rather than in-person. This removes a costly and time-consuming burden on both caseworkers and their employers. In addition, permitting virtual trainings increases flexibility for caseworkers, allowing them to complete training at a time and pace that fits their demanding schedules. Localities will need to opt into this law. CSEA’s Political Action Coordinators will be working with local governments across the state to ensure the law’s adoption.

2. New DMV Regulations

Earlier this month, regulations from the Department of Motor Vehicles went into effect that increased points for certain violations, including speeding in a work zone and overtaking a stopped school bus. Now, a driver who violates these laws will receive eight points on their license, up from five points. This is an important step in deterring drivers from endangering public employees and school children across the state. CSEA will be continuing to advance measures that improve safety for members in the upcoming legislative session.

3. U.S. House Elections

Republican Rep. John Duarte has conceded to his Democratic challenger Adam Gray in California’s 13th Congressional District. The contest was the last unresolved House race in the country, and with Gray’s victory, Republicans won 220 seats to Democrats’ 215. This means that Republicans will control the U.S. House of Representatives by a slim three-vote margin.

4. Beware of Pension Scams

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli is warning current and former government workers using New York’s public retirement system to be vigilant when logging into the online site after reports of a potential cyber threat. Scammers have created a fake website mimicking that of Retirement Online. The hackers attempt to trick users into logging into the fake sites and then get their login credentials. If you are trying to access the website, you should do so only through the state comptroller’s website. Using a search engine to access Retirement Online could provide links to the deceptive unofficial sites.

5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:				Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Hochul’s Inflation Refund Proposal

Governor Hochul has released her first State of the State proposal, which she calls the “Inflation Refund.” This proposal, which would need legislative approval, would send a $500 check to families making less than $300,000 per year and a $300 check to individuals making less than $150,000. This proposal, if approved, would deliver about $3 billion in direct payments to around 8.6 million New Yorkers in 2025. CSEA is supportive of this proposal, with President Mary E. Sullivan saying, “This tax rebate is welcome news for CSEA members struggling with their finances. CSEA applauds Governor Hochul for doing the right thing for the working people of New York.” The governor will deliver her annual State of the State Address on January 14, 2025.

2. Workers Compensation Bill Signed

Governor Hochul signed legislation that will allow employees in New York to file for workers’ compensation after extraordinary workplace stress. Previously, only select first responders were allowed to file for this type of benefit. The law ensures that claims cannot be dismissed on the grounds that the stress experienced is typical for the workplace. This move aims to promote mental health equity and provide resources for workers in need of support.

3. 2025 Legislative Session Calendar

The 2025 Legislative Session calendar was released this week. The legislature will meet on January 8 and will meet 62 times through June 12. Check out the calendar of session days below:

4. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:				Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

Week ending November 22, 2024

This e-mail is 433 words, about a 2-minute read.

1. Congestion Pricing

New York City’s congestion pricing plan is set to commence on January 5, 2025, with a revised toll of $9 for most vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street, down from the previously proposed $15. Governor Kathy Hochul announced this change, emphasizing the need for funding improvements to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) while also aiming to reduce traffic congestion in the city. The MTA board approved the updated plan after Hochul had paused it earlier in June due to concerns over affordability amid rising inflation. However, several lawsuits have arisen from opponents attempting to stop this implementation. On December 20, a federal just is expected to rule on whether the plan can proceed.

2. Trump Appointments

Since last week, President-elect Trump has selected additional nominees for his cabinet. These include:

• Robert F. Kennedy as Secretary of Health and Human Services Secretary
• Doug Collins as Secretary of Veterans Affairs
• Doug Burgam as Secretary of the Interior
• Chris Wright as Secretary of Energy
• Sean Duffy as Secretary of Transportation
• Howard Lutnick as Secretary of Commerce
• Linda McMahon as Secretary of Education

Additionally, Trump’s nominee for Attorney General, Matt Gaetz, withdrew his bid for the role amid allegations of sexual misconduct. In his place, Trump has nominated Pam Bondi.

3. Pension Fund Post Returns

This week, New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that the estimated value of the New York State Common Retirement Fund was $274.6 billion at the end of the second quarter of state fiscal year 2024-25. DiNapoli said, “our diverse portfolio is built on long-term sustainable investments that can weather the market’s ups and downs, and is one of the reasons we remain one of the nation’s strongest public pension funds.”

4. Happy Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving is a time to show gratitude and connect with family and friends. It’s a well-deserved break to enjoy good food and good company while reflecting on the past year. From everyone here at CSEA’s Legislative and Political Action Department, we wish you a happy Thanksgiving filled with comfort and connection. Due to the holiday, the next edition of “This Week in Albany” will be in your inbox on Friday, December 6.
5. 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:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:				Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

Week ending November 15, 2024

This e-mail is 509 words, about a 3-minute read.

1. Workplace Safety

In the wake of the tragic deaths of CSEA Thruway Authority employee Stephen Ebling, CSEA social services worker Mario Soto, and NYS Park Ranger Dariel Vasquez, CSEA is calling on the Governor and State Legislature to make workplace safety a top priority during the 2025 legislative session.

To start, CSEA is urging state lawmakers to strengthen existing laws and implement new penalties aimed at ensuring the safety of highway workers and other first responders who work on the state’s highways. In many cases, drivers have failed to follow the law by not moving over or slowing down when approaching work zones or areas where vehicles are on the side of a highway.

We will be continuing our work in this legislative session and beyond to ensure that all CSEA members are safe in the workplace.

2. Chris Ryan Wins in SD-50

CSEA-endorsed candidate Chris Ryan declared victory today in the race to replace John Mannion in the 50th New York State Senate District. While there are still votes outstanding, Ryan currently leads by about 1,400 votes, which is greater than the 0.5% margin that automatically triggers a hand recount by state law.

Despite holding on to this hotly contested seat, Democrats have lost their supermajority in the State Senate. This means that they no longer have the power to override a Governor’s veto without help from Senate Republicans.

3. Trump Cabinet Picks

Since winning the presidential election, President-elect Trump has selected several allies to serve in cabinet positions for the next administration. As of this publication, he has selected:

• Rep. Elise Stefanik as United Nations Ambassador
• Former Rep. Lee Zeldin as the next Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency
• Sen. Marco Rubio as Secretary of State
• Rep. Matt Gaetz as U.S. Attorney General
• Former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence
• South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security
• Fox News Host Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense
• Former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe as CIA Director
• Tom Homan as ‘Border Czar,’ who will oversee deportation policy and aviation security

These selections would need to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate. However, Trump has suggested utilizing “recess appointments” to bypass the Senate confirmation process for some positions. This constitutional provision allows the president to fill vacancies when Congress is not in session. Congress would need to be adjourned for at least 10 days. Recess appointments would be able to serve in their selected roles for the remainder of the congressional session, up to two years.

4. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget.

	Tier 6 Reform:		Updating Civil Service Exams:		Counting Provisional Time Towards Promotions:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:				Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

Week ending November 8, 2024

This e-mail is 317 words, about a 2-minute read.

1. Election Results

Nearly 8 million votes were cast and counted across New York State.

Despite losing New York, former President Donald Trump handily defeated Vice President Kamala Harris, winning both the Electoral College and the popular vote.

The United State Senate will be controlled by the GOP beginning next year, however, New York re-elected Democrat Senator Kirsten Gillibrand for another six year term.

Control of the House of Representatives is still unclear, but multiple New York Congressional seats flipped from Republican to Democratic including:

• Congressional District 4 –Laura Gillen appears to have defeated CSEA-backed Representative Anthony D’Esposito
• Congressional District 19 –Josh Riley defeated CSEA-backed Representative Marcus Molinaro
• Congressional District 22 – CSEA-backed State Senator John Mannion defeated Representative Brandon Williams
• CSEA-endorsed Democratic Congressional incumbents also held on to key seats, including Tom Suozzi in Congressional District 3 and Pat Ryan in district 18

In the New York State Senate and Assembly, there were few surprises or incumbents losing, but CSEA-endorsed candidates had some very big wins, including:

• State Senators Jack Martins & Rob Rolison fending off strong challengers
• Senate candidate Chris Ryan is currently leading in a close race to replace Congressman-elect John Mannion. This race will likely not be decided until a re-count takes place later this year
• Chairwoman of the Assembly Governmental Employees Committee, Stacy Pheffer Amato, is currently leading in her race for re-election and has declared victory

Proposition 1, also known as The Equal Rights Amendment, passed overwhelmingly. CSEA delegates voted at the 2024 CSEA Annual Delegates Meeting to support this proposition.

Electing pro-CSEA candidates was not possible without the hard work of CSEA members and retirees across the state. Members knocked on doors, made phone calls, and got out the vote for all our endorsed candidates. Thank you to everyone who volunteered.

2. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget.

	Tier 6 Reform:		Updating Civil Service Exams:		Counting Provisional Time Towards Promotions:
	Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:				Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Make a Plan to Vote!

Tuesday, November 5, is Election Day! Polls are open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Early voting is also available through Sunday, November 3.

Make a plan to vote! Make sure you know your polling location, schedule a time to vote, and check out CSEA’s endorsed candidates. Remember, your voice is powerful, and voting is one of the most impactful ways to express it. This election is not just about choosing leaders; it’s about shaping the policies that affect our jobs, our communities, and our future. Every vote matters, and history has shown us that elections can be decided by a remarkably small number of votes. Let’s stand together and make our voices heard!

2. Election Highlight: The Equal Rights Amendment

CSEA supports the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), which would amend the State Constitution to include the right to an abortion, as well as anti-discrimination protections for gender identity and expression. Contrary to the misinformation being peddled by opponents, these provisions are already protected in state law; the ERA would simply enshrine existing law in the State Constitution. The Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA) was passed in 2019, which codified protections for gender identity and expression into law, while the Reproductive Health Act, also passed in 2019, protects abortion rights.    

Don’t forget to flip over your ballot and vote YES on the ERA!

3. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Updating Civil Service Exams:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Promotions:

Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:

Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Early Voting Starts Tomorrow

Early voting starts on Saturday, October 26 and runs through Sunday, November 3! Voting hours and polling sites vary by county. Find early voting information for your county, here.

Tomorrow is also the last day to register to vote! If you’re not registered, you can do it online. Even if you think you’re registered, make sure to double-check.

Before you go to the polls, check out CSEA’s list of endorsements by region on our website. Don’t forget to flip your ballot and vote YES on Proposition 1, the Equal Rights Amendment!

2. Election Highlights: The New York State Assembly

The 2024 General Election is 10 days away! This week, we are highlighting NYS Assembly races. All 150 seats in the State Assembly are up for election this year and CSEA has made endorsements in many of them throughout the state. While each race is important, we wanted to highlight a few.

CSEA is supporting Stacey Pheffer Amato in her re-election bid for Assembly District 23, which encompasses parts of Queens. As Chair of the Governmental Employees Committee for the NYS Assembly, Pheffer Amato, has been played an integral role in CSEA’s work to reform Tier 6 and the civil service system to recruit and retain employees in the public sector.

CSEA is proud to endorse Harry Bronson in his re-election bid for Assembly District 138, which encompasses parts of Rochester and the surrounding areas. As Chair of the Assembly Labor Committee, Bronson has been a great friend to unions and has consistently fought to provide greater protections and benefits to workers across the state. Even before being elected to the Assembly, Bronson was fighting for workers as a labor and employment attorney.

CSEA has endorsed Mary Beth Walsh for re-election in Assembly District 112, which covers portions of Saratoga, Schenectady and Fulton counties. Walsh has been a strong, supportive voice on issues important to our union members, including Tier 6 reforms and recruitment and retention legislation. Walsh has also established a strong record fighting for critically important funding for local governments to invest in much needed road and bridge repair.

For more information on how to vote, including early voting locations and a list of all of CSEA’s endorsements, visit cseany.org/vote.

3. Governor Signs School Bus Safety Bill

This week, Governor Hochul signed A.3120/S.9504, which increases the fine for passing a school bus from $1,000 to $1,500. Thousands of children and school district employees are put in danger due to reckless and illegal driving behavior around school buses, which can lead to tragic and fatal consequences. By increasing penalties, this bill works to deter this behavior and increase safety for children and staff alike.

This past session, 805 bills were passed by both houses of the State Legislature. Since the end of session in June, Governor Hochul has acted on 445 of them. This leaves 360 bills that are awaiting the governor’s signature or veto.

4. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Updating Civil Service Exams:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Promotions:

Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:

Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Even Year Elections

Last week, a State Supreme Court Justice struck down New York’s Even Year Election Law, finding that the statute violates the State Constitution. The law would have moved most local elections to even years to align them with races for U.S. President, U.S. Congress, Governor and both houses of the State Legislature. This law was passed in 2023 and would have gone into effect in 2025. The state is expected to appeal this ruling. CSEA was opposed to shifting local elections to even years.

2. Election Highlights: The New York State Senate

The 2024 general election is 17 days away!  This week, we are highlighting New York State Senate races. All 63 seats in the State Senate are up for re-election this year, and CSEA has made endorsements is many of them throughout the state. While each race is important, we wanted to highlight a few.

CSEA has endorsed Jack Martins in his re-election bid for Senate District 7, which encompasses part of Nassau County. Jack is a longtime friend of CSEA and has fought for workers and middle-class families throughout his four terms in the State Senate. Jack is also one of the most vocal proponents of Tier 6 reform in the Senate.

CSEA is proud to endorse Rob Rolison in his re-election bid for Senate District 39, which encompasses parts of Orange, Rockland and Ulster counties. In the State Senate, Rob has been an outspoken advocate for Tier 6 reform. Before that, as Mayor of Poughkeepsie, Rob worked with CSEA to negotiate multiple contracts that were good for workers.

CSEA is also supporting Chris Ryan in his race to replace John Mannion in Senate District 50, which encompasses parts of Onondaga and Oswego counties. Mannion is currently running to unseat Brandon Williams in New York’s 22nd Congressional District. Chris Ryan is a current union president who knows the issues that working people face. As an Onondaga County Legislator, Chris walked picket lines with CSEA and fought against privatization and outsourcing. He’s been an advocate for union members at the county level and he will continue to be as a state legislator.

For more information on how to vote, including early voting locations and a list of all of CSEA’s endorsements, visit cseany.org/vote.

3. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Updating Civil Service Exams:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Promotions:

Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:

Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. This Year in Albany

This was a strong year for CSEA. We secured crucial pension reform for Tier 6 members and eliminated the burdensome five-day salary withholding program and lag payroll for state employees. We passed groundbreaking legislation to regulate the use of artificial intelligence in the public sector and achieved significant changes to improve the civil service system, making it more accessible and efficient for current and prospective public employees. We’ve summarized our victories and other must-know information about this year’s legislative session and budget in our “This Year in Albany” publication, which you can find here.

2. Legislative Victory: EMPIRE Act

CSEA was successful in blocking the passage of the EMPIRE Act, S.541/A.9012, which would have outsourced wage theft enforcement actions to private organizations. This work is performed by staff at the Department of Labor (DOL). Advocates of this legislation claim that it is necessary because the DOL does not have sufficient staff. We agree that the staffing levels must increase. However, the solution is not the privatization of this function, rather, it is for the state to hire additional staff to enforce these laws.

3. Project 2025: Impact on the Economy

The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 is a policy playbook for the next Republican administration that would fundamentally alter the way our government functions. This week, we’re highlighting some of the document’s proposals that would hurt the economy and middle-class families. According to the document:

• The Treasury should simplify the tax code to just two brackets: 15% and 30%. There are currently seven brackets ranging from 10% to 37%. This would reduce taxes for the wealthy and increase taxes for middle- and low-income earners. [p.696]
• “Capital gains should be taxed at 15 percent,” which would increase taxes on low- and middle-income investors, and decrease them for the wealthy. [p.696]
• “The corporate income tax should be reduced to 18 percent,” which would boost profits of wealthy corporations, while reducing federal tax revenues by nearly $30 billion. [p.696]

These are just a few of the many negative impacts that Project 2025 would have. In each issue, we’ll be highlighting additional areas of concern. To read the full document, click here. You can also view and share our Project 2025 fliers here.

4. Social Security Benefits Increase

Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for more than 72.5 million Americans are set to increase by 2.5% in 2025, as announced by the Social Security Administration on Thursday. This adjustment, effective from January 2025, will result in an average monthly increase of approximately $50 for Social Security beneficiaries, raising the average benefit from about $1,927 to $1,976. The increase reflects a modest cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) aimed at helping recipients cope with inflation.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Updating Civil Service Exams:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Promotions:

Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:

Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Bills Awaiting Action

This past session, 805 bills were passed by both houses of the State Legislature. Since the end of session in June, Governor Hochul has acted on 424 of them. This leaves 381 bills that are awaiting the governor’s signature or veto, including four CSEA priority bills:

• S.6357/A.7341, which would allow child protective services workers to complete certain trainings virtually through distance learning methods freeze.

• S.4040/A.7532, which would require that every Industrial Development Agency (IDA) board include at least one representative of a local labor organization and one member of the local school board.

• S.3397-A/A.9011-A, which would set a maximum temperature for school buildings and indoor facilities.

• S.7543/A.9430, which would regulate the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the public sector and prohibit public employers from replacing employees with AI.

2. Legislative Victory: Employee Notifications

This week, we’re highlighting S.5500/A.8934, which ensures that all public employees are provided with notice whenever an employer responds to a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request for an employee’s disciplinary record.

Disciplinary records can contain sensitive personal information and employees should, at minimum, be made aware that this information is publicly available. This legislation establishes a straightforward yet important requirement – agencies must notify an employee if they are responding to a request for such employee’s disciplinary record. Providing notice after records are released is a modest, commonsense step to respect employee privacy rights.

This bill went into effect on September 4, 2024.

3. Election Highlight: Tom Suozzi

CSEA is proud to endorse Tom Suozzi in his bid for New York’s 3rd Congressional District. Suozzi has had a long relationship with CSEA, particularly with members in Nassau County. He has been a champion for working families throughout his entire career in public service, including during his time spearheading the House Labor Caucus. Tom has always stood with CSEA members and his work in Congress demonstrates his support for public employees. He is a strong advocate for unions and will be a powerful voice for the workers of the 3rd District.

You can find all of CSEA’s endorsed candidates by region here.

4. Project 2025: Impact on Education

The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 is a policy playbook for the next Republican administration that would fundamentally alter the way our government functions. This week, we’re highlighting some of the document’s proposals that would hurt our education system, including parents, students, teachers, and staff. According to the document:

• “The federal Department of Education should be eliminated” [p.319]
• “Families should be able to take their children’s taxpayer-funded education dollars to…a private school” [p.347]
• “Over a 10-year period, the federal spending [on education] should be phased out” [p.350]

This is just one of the many negative impacts that Project 2025 would have. In each issue, we’ll be highlighting additional areas of concern. To read the full document, click here. You can also view and share our Project 2025 fliers here.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Updating Civil Service Exams:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Promotions:

Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:

Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. Mayor Eric Adams Indicted

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is currently facing significant legal challenges after being indicted on federal charges this week, including bribery and soliciting illegal foreign donations for his campaign. The allegations stem from an extensive investigation into his 2021 election campaign, particularly concerning connections to the Turkish government and potential unlawful contributions. Adams has consistently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he will not resign and is prepared to contest the charges in court. Several high-profile officials have called on Adams to resign, including U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and State Sens. John Liu and Zellnor Myrie.

2. Government Shutdown Avoided

Congress successfully passed a short-term spending bill on September 25, which will fund the government until December 20, thereby averting a potential shutdown set to occur at the end of the month. The bipartisan legislation was successful after previous attempts to link funding with controversial voter registration requirements, known as the SAVE Act, failed due to opposition from both Democrats and some Republicans. The bill maintains current funding levels while also allocating additional resources for the Secret Service in light of recent security concerns. New York’s entire Congressional delegation voted in favor of the bill, with the exception of U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman, who did not vote.

3. Election Highlight: John Mannion

CSEA is proud to endorse John Mannion in his bid for New York’s 22nd Congressional District. Mannion, a former union president, strongly supports working people. Mannion has served for two terms in the State Senate, where he was one of the loudest voices fighting to Fix Tier 6. He also fought for the creation of good-paying union jobs and funding for education, health care and other vital services. During these divisive times, we need leaders who will put people over politics. John has a track record of working with both parties to make common sense decisions for Central New Yorkers. We need that leadership in Congress.

You can find all of CSEA’s endorsed candidates by region here.

4. Project 2025: Hurricane Helene

The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 is a policy playbook for the next Republican administration that would fundamentally alter the way our government functions. As Hurricane Helene batters the southeastern United States, it is important to note that Project 2025 advocates for dismantling the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) [p.674], which oversees critical services such as the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and the National Weather Service (NWS). Millions of Americans rely on these agencies for timely and accurate hurricane forecasts essential for safety and emergency preparedness during storm events like Helene. Disbanding this agency would compromise the reliability of weather information, potentially endangering lives by undermining the very systems designed to protect communities from devastating hurricanes.

This is just one of the many negative impacts that Project 2025 would have. In each issue, we’ll be highlighting additional areas of concern. To read the full document, click here. You can also view and share our Project 2025 fliers here.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Updating Civil Service Exams:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Promotions:

Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:

Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. CSEA-Supported Bill Signed

This week, Governor Hochul signed A.9102/S.8486, which allows Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies to be reimbursed for providing treatment at the point of response, as well for transporting patients to health care settings other than hospitals.

Under previous law, Medicaid would only reimburse EMS agencies if they transported a patient to a hospital. This means that if they treated the patient on-site or took them to another setting, such as a mental health clinic, the agency would not receive payment for services. As a result, EMS agencies were forced to absorb these costs, creating significant financial strain on local governments and nonprofit service providers. Authorizing Medicaid reimbursements for treatment in place will allow first responders to provide tailored care that is best suited to the needs of their patients without financial penalty, and will alleviate the strain on our health care system.

This law will go into effect on October 1, 2025.

2. Spending Bill Fails In U.S. House

This week, the U.S. House struck down Speaker Mike Johnson’s spending plan, which sought to link a six-month funding extension with a controversial provision requiring proof of citizenship for voting. The measure failed 202-222, with 14 House Republicans and all but three House Democrats voting no. New York’s Congressional Delegation voted along party lines, with all Democrats voting no and all Republicans voting yes, with the exception of U.S. Reps. D’Esposito, LaLota, and Malliotakis, who did not vote.

Democrats have urged Johnson to drop his funding plan and bring a clean short-term measure to the floor to keep the government open. Congress must act to pass a spending bill before October 1, or face a federal government shutdown.

3. Election Highlight: Pat Ryan

CSEA is proud to endorse Pat Ryan in his re-election for New York’s 18th Congressional District. Pat Ryan is completing his first full term as a member of Congress, where he has been an outspoken advocate on preserving reproductive rights and retirement security for middle-class Americans. Prior to this, he served as the Ulster County Executive, where he negotiated a historic CBA with CSEA that addressed severe geographic inadequacies in pay for certain county departments. He joined bipartisan lobbying efforts as County Executive to successfully convince Congress to pass the American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA), which was an enormous investment into state and local governments in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, saving countless public jobs and services. He is a graduate of West Point, and a veteran who has served multiple tours overseas.

You can find all of CSEA’s endorsed candidates by region here.

4. Project 2025: Impact on Unions

The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 is the policy playbook that would fundamentally alter the way our government functions. This week, we’re highlighting some of the document’s proposals that would harm unions.

• “Congress should consider whether public-sector unions are appropriate in the first place.” [p.81]
• Agencies should “prioritize performance over seniority when deciding who should be retained following reductions-in-force” [p.81]
• Agencies should “prevent union representatives from…engaging in union activity on government time” [p.81]

These are just a few examples of the negative impacts that Project 2025 would have on CSEA members. In each issue, we’ll be highlighting additional areas of concern. To read the full document, click here. You can also view and share our Project 2025 fliers here.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Updating Civil Service Exams:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Promotions:

Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:

Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

1. CSEA-Supported Bills Awaiting Action

There are still several bills that have passed both houses that are awaiting final action, including:

• S.7543/A.9430: The Legislative Oversight of Automated Decision-making in Government (LOADING) Act
• S.6357-B/A.7341-B: Allowing virtual training for CPS workers
• S.3397-A/A.9011-A: Setting a maximum temperature for school buildings and indoor facilities

Last week, Governor Hochul signed four CSEA-supported bills into law:

• S.8557/A.9386: Counting provision time toward promotion requirements
• S.5500-B/A.8934-A: Providing employee notice of records disclosures
• S.8216/A.8876: Reducing the minimum age and education requirements to take civil service exams
• S.8551/A.9349: Updating civil service exams

So far this year, Governor Hochul has signed more than 315 bills. There are 490 remaining bills that require action by the Governor.

2. Legislative Highlight: Virtual Training for CPS Workers

In each issue, we’ll be highlighting one of CSEA’s legislative victories from this past session. This week, we’re highlighting S.6357/A.7341, which allows Child Protective Services caseworkers to complete certain training requirements virtually, rather than in-person.

The current requirement for CPS case workers to complete all of their training in-person can present a significant burden. CPS caseworkers across our state are already spread thin, with some counties experiencing caseloads at double or triple the recommended level. At such high levels, it is impractical to require caseworkers to travel to an in-person training when those trainings can be effectively administered virtually. This bill removes a costly and time-consuming burden on both case workers and their employers. Permitting virtual trainings increases flexibility for caseworkers, allowing them to complete training at a time and pace that fits their demanding schedules.

This bill passed both houses of the State Legislature and is awaiting delivery to Governor Hochul.

3. Government Shutdown Looms

Congress must act to fund the federal government by September 30 or face a partial government shutdown. This week, House Speaker Mike Johnson pulled a temporary funding bill after losing support from over a dozen Republicans. Due to the slim Republican majority in the U.S. House of Representatives, Speaker Johnson can only afford to lose four votes from his caucus on any future funding bills.

4. Election Highlight: Anthony D’Esposito

CSEA is proud to endorse Anthony D’Esposito in his re-election bid for New York’s 4th Congressional District, which encompasses parts of Nassau County. D’Esposito has a strong relationship with CSEA and has been a consistent advocate for our union’s issues. D’Esposito served as a Councilman for the Town of Hempstead for eight years. During that time, he voted to support fair contracts for our members and became an ally for our workforce. As such, CSEA endorsed each of his re-election campaigns for town council.

You can find all of CSEA’s endorsed candidates by region here.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Updating Civil Service Exams:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Promotions:

Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:

Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

Four Important Bills Signed!

1. CSEA-Supported Bills Signed

Several CSEA-supported bills were signed by Governor Hochul this week, including:

• S.8557 (Jackson) / A.9386 (Pheffer Amato), which requires that any time spent as a provisional employee be counted toward time required for a promotional exam.

• A.6146-B (Buttenschon) / S.5500-B (Skoufis), which requires all public employees to be provided notice whenever an employer responds to a Freedom of Information Law request for such employee’s disciplinary record.

• S.8216-A (Jackson) / A.8876 (Pheffer Amato), which allows individuals who are within 12 months of meeting the age or education requirements of a given civil service job to take an exam for that position.

• S.8551 (Jackson) / A.9349 (Pheffer Amato), which requires the New York State Department of Civil Service to review civil service exams every five years and update them as necessary.

Each of these bills went into effect on September 4, 2024.

2. Molinaro for Congress

CSEA is proud to endorse Marc Molinaro, who is running for a second term in the 19th Congressional District. Marc Molinaro is ranked as the 2nd most bipartisan member of the entire Congress, including the House and Senate. Before his time in Congress, he was elected to three terms as the Dutchess County Executive, where he worked together with CSEA to weather the difficult economic times of the early- to mid-2010s, successfully negotiating multiple CBAs while avoiding layoffs or downsizing county government. He joined bipartisan lobbying efforts as County Executive to successfully convince Congress to pass the American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA), which was an enormous investment into state and local governments in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, saving countless public jobs and services. If you are interested in volunteering with this campaign or on other CSEA-priority races, visit cseany.org/vote.

3. Get Ready to Vote

The General Election is on November 5! There are many important races on the ballot, including the U.S. President, all members of Congress, a U.S. Senate seat, and all members of the State Senate and Assembly. Here are the important dates to remember:

• The last day to register to vote is October 26, 2024. You can register online here.

• The last day request an absentee ballot is October 26, 2024. You can do so here.

• Early voting begins on October 26, 2024 and runs through November 3, 2024. Find your early voting location here.

• Election Day is November 5, 2024. Find your polling place here. This is also the final day to postmark your absentee ballot.
•  

4. Remembering September 11

As we approach the anniversary of September 11, we take a moment to reflect on the profound impact this day has had on our nation. It serves as a solemn reminder of the thousands of lives lost, five of whom were CSEA members: Yvette Anderson, Florence Cohen, Harry Goody, Marian “Marty” Hrycak and Dorothy Temple. This day also serves as a reminder of our nation’s resilience in the face of tragedy. We honor the memory of those who perished and the countless individuals who came together in the aftermath, demonstrating the strength of our communities. Let us unite in remembrance and commitment to fostering a spirit of solidarity and hope as we carry forward the lessons learned from that fateful day.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Updating Civil Service Exams:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Promotions:

Employee Notice of Records Disclosure:

Minimum Age & Education Requirements for Exams:

CSEA Releases Endorsements

1. CSEA’s Endorsements

Through CSEA’s member-driven endorsement process, CSEA’s region Political Action Committees (PACs) and the State PAC have worked hard this summer interviewing candidates running for office to determine who will best fight for members. You can see the full list of endorsements by region here.

CSEA is always looking for volunteers to help with our campaign efforts. For information on how you can help, please contact your region’s political action coordinator.

2. Legislative Highlight: The Temp Act

In each issue, we’ll be highlighting one of CSEA’s legislative victories from this past session. This week, we’re highlighting S.3397/A.9011, which requires all school facilities to establish maximum temperature limits.

Excessive heat poses risks to everyone in a school building, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and other preventable illnesses. This legislation addresses these concerns by requiring schools to take action to relieve heat discomfort whenever occupied spaces like classrooms reach 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The bill also prohibits occupancy if temperatures exceed 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining appropriate temperatures allows schools to foster productive learning environments and safe working conditions for students, teachers, and staff.

This bill passed both houses of the State Legislature and is awaiting delivery to Governor Hochul.

3. Project 2025: Impact on Public Employees

The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 is the policy playbook that would fundamentally alter the way our government functions. This week, we’re highlighting some of the document’s proposals that would harm public employees.

• Reduce the number of federal employees, saying, “reducing the number of federal employees seems an obvious way to reduce the overall expense of the civil service.” [p.78]
• Undermine the Civil Service’s pay structure by “expanding the role of performance related to pay throughout the entire workforce” [p.74]
• Outsource public work, saying, “contractors are less expensive because they are not entitled to high government pensions or benefits and are easier to fire and discipline”[p.78]

These are just a few examples of the negative impacts that Project 2025 would have on CSEA members. In each issue, we’ll be highlighting additional areas of concern. To read the full document, click here. You can also view and share our Project 2025 fliers here.

4. Court Upholds Early Mail-In Ballots

On Tuesday, the state Court of Appeals upheld a law that allows ballots to be mailed in during the early voting period ahead of an election. The law, passed in 2021, was challenged by Republicans, who argued law violated the state constitution. The ruling means the mail-in voting option will be allowed in this November’s election and future elections in New York unless the law faces another legal challenge.

5. Labor Day

As we approach Labor Day, let’s take a moment to honor the tireless efforts and invaluable contributions of workers everywhere. This day is a celebration of the power of the labor movement and the hard-fought rights and protections that workers have secured over more than a century. As we enjoy this well-deserved break, let’s reflect on the progress that has been made and the work that remains to ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and equitable treatment for all.

6. Next Week

For the summer, This Week in Albany will be published every two weeks. The next edition will be in your inbox on September 6.

7. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Harris Picks Walz

1. Harris Selects a VP

Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate for the upcoming presidential election, aiming to enhance the Democratic ticket’s appeal in the Midwest. Walz, 60, is a military veteran and former U.S. Representative who has served as governor since 2019. Before entering politics, he spent a decade as a public school teacher and was an active union member.

2. Equal Rights Amendment

In November, New York voters will decide on Proposition 1, an Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) to the state constitution, which aims to expand anti-discrimination protections by including provisions related to gender identity and reproductive health care autonomy, including the right to abortion. The amendment faced legal challenges when a lower court removed it from the ballot due to a procedural error by state lawmakers. However, a panel of midlevel appellate judges reinstated it, ruling that the plaintiffs had missed the deadline to file their lawsuit. The New York Court of Appeals declined to hear an appeal, ensuring the amendment’s place on the ballot. While there are concerns about the ballot language’s clarity, the legal hurdles have been cleared, allowing voters to cast their vote on this amendment. CSEA is supportive of the ERA.

3. Legislative Highlight: Updating Civil Service Exams

In each issue, we’ll be highlighting one of CSEA’s legislative victories from this past session. This week, we’re highlighting S.8551/A.9349, which requires the New York State Department of Civil Service to review and update civil service exams every five years.

The civil service system is designed to ensure that hiring and promotional decisions are based on merit and fitness. For this system to work, the questions posed by these exams must effectively evaluate candidates on the skills and abilities required for each job. However, the public sector workforce is constantly adapting to technological advances, an increasing demand for services, and more. As a result, the skills and abilities required to be effective in a civil service job are subject to change. This bill ensures that the civil service system is equally adaptive by requiring that civil service exams questions be reassessed every five years to reflect these changing needs.

This bill passed both houses of the State Legislature and is awaiting delivery to Governor Hochul.

4. Project 2025: Impact on Unions

The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 is the policy playbook for a second Trump administration. This sprawling 800+ page proposal would fundamentally alter the way the federal government functions. This week, we’re highlighting some of the document’s proposals that would hurt public sector unions. The document says that the next Republican administration should:

• Disband public sector unions, saying, “Congress should consider whether public-sector unions are appropriate in the first place.” [p.81]
• “Prioritize performance over seniority when deciding who should be retained following reductions-in-force” [p.81]
• “Prevent union representatives from engaging in union activity on government time”[p.81]

These are just a few examples of the negative impacts that Project 2025 would have on CSEA members. In each issue, we’ll be highlighting additional areas of concern. To read the full document, click here. You can also view and share our Project 2025 fliers, here.

5. Next Week

For the summer, This Week in Albany will be published every two weeks. The next edition will be in your inbox on August 23.

6. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Biden Steps Aside. 

1. Biden Drops Out

President Joe Biden has made the unprecedented decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. In his statement, Biden expressed gratitude for his time in office and emphasized his commitment to fulfill his duties until the end of his term. Meanwhile, Harris has garnered enough delegate support to secure the Democratic nomination.

2. Prison Closures Announced

The Fiscal Year 2025 Enacted Budget authorized the closure of up to 5 DOCCS facilities, provided that the Governor gives 90 days’ notice prior to the closure. Last week, the Governor Hochul announced that Great Meadow Correctional Facility in Washington County and Sullivan Correctional Facility in Sullivan County will be closing. CSEA will be working with the agency and members to ensure a smooth transition; no CSEA members will lose their jobs.

3. Legislative Highlight: IDA Labor Representative  

In each issue, we’ll be highlighting one of CSEA’s legislative victories from this past session. This week, we’re highlighting S.4040/A.7532, which requires that every Industrial Development Agency (IDA) board include at least one representative of a local labor organization and one member of the local school board.

IDAs provide financial assistance and incentives to businesses and development projects, utilizing public money to fund tax exemptions, grants, and other subsidies aimed at spurring economic growth. However, corporate interests are often over-represented on the boards of IDAs, resulting in decisions that fail to prioritize the needs of workers and their families. By requiring IDAs to have at least one board member from organized labor, this bill will ensure that the worker perspective is represented in economic development decisions

This bill passed both houses of the State Legislature and is awaiting delivery to Governor Hochul.

4. Assemblymember Burgos Resigns

Assemblymember Kenny Burgos, who represents parts of the Bronx, announced his resignation on Friday. The move brings Democrats’ ranks in the Assembly down to 100, the minimum number of seats to hold onto the party’s veto-proof supermajority.

5. Next Week

For the summer, This Week in Albany will be published every two weeks. The next edition will be in your inbox on August 8.

6. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

1. Legislative Victory: Age & Education Requirements for Civil Service Exams

In each issue, we’ll be highlighting one of CSEA’s legislative victories from this past session.

This week, we’re highlighting S.8216/A.8876, which allows individuals who are within 12 months of meeting the age or education requirements of a given civil service job to take an exam for that position. Current law requires a person to be within 6 months of meeting the age requirement. This legislation will allow prospective employees to get their foot in the door earlier, reducing the time they need to wait between meeting the job requirements and beginning a career in the public sector. Public employers will better be able to recruit students who are in their final year of a degree or education program and help fill the pipeline for critical public sector jobs.

This bill passed both houses of the State Legislature and is awaiting delivery to Governor Hochul.

2. House Republicans Pass Spending Bills

Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives passed four of 12 annual appropriations bills that make up the 2025 federal budget. The federal fiscal year ends on September 30, meaning that both houses of Congress must pass, and President Biden must sign, all 12 appropriations bills by that date to avoid a government shutdown. While there is still time, House Speaker Johnson has so far failed to reach a deal on government funding with the Senate, where Democrats are in the majority. House Republicans are committed to passing all 12 appropriations bills before Congress is set for a month-long recess in August.

3. Local Sales Tax Collections Up

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli released updated local sales tax numbers for 2024, showing an overall increase in collections of 3.9% compared to 2023. Local collections totaled $1.78 billion, up $66.4 million from the same time last year. Local sales tax revenue is a major part of local government finances, which allows for spending on local government services, jobs, and programs.

4. Next Week

For the summer, This Week in Albany will be published every two weeks. The next edition will be in your inbox on July 26.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Primary Results are In! 

1. Primary Results

CSEA-endorsed candidates did very well in Tuesday’s primary elections:

• In Region 1, we took on a State Senate primary with the endorsement of Siela Bynoe. Siela came out on top through the hard work of CSEA members who did literature drops, rallies and phone calls.

• In Region 2, we were involved in a handful of primary races for candidates that we endorsed—Larinda Hooks (Assembly District 35 in Queens); Johanna Carmona (Assembly District 37 in Queens); Eddie Gibbs (Assembly District 68 in Manhattan); Micah Lasher (Assembly District 69 in Manhattan); Jordan Wright (Assembly District 70 in Manhattan); and Michael Benedetto (Assembly District 82 in the Bronx). All endorsed candidates, except for Carmona, were successful.

• In Region 3, CSEA members were highly engaged in George Latimer’s victory in the 16th Congressional District over the incumbent Jamaal Bowman.

• In Region 5, CSEA members went all out for John Mannion who ran in the 22nd Congressional District and as a result, he cruised to victory.

• In Region 6, CSEA members helped incumbent Assemblymember Demond Meeks win his primary with several labor walks and phone banks.

In addition to members’ involvement in these races, our CSEA staff phone bankers were critical to our successes, making thousands of phone calls for CSEA’s endorsed candidates. Thank you to the phone bankers and all of the members who helped our endorsed candidates win!

2. Legislative Victory: Crediting Provisional Time for Promotional Exams  

Each week, we’ll be highlighting one of CSEA’s legislative victories from this past session.

This week, we’re highlighting S.8557/A.9386, which would allow time spent by an employee in provisional status to count towards any required time to take a promotional exam if the employee becomes permanently appointed to the same title. This legislation will give CSEA members who were provisional the ability to take promotional examinations faster than they currently are able and grow their career in the public sector.

This bill passed both houses of the State Legislature and is awaiting action by Governor Hochul.

3. Salary Withholding Program

On July 1, the state will stop withholding 5 days of pay for new employees. Currently, state employees have one day of pay withheld in each of their first five pay periods, meaning an employee does not receive a full paycheck for nearly 3 months. State employees hired on or after July 1 will no longer be subject to this withholding. The current withholding serves as a barrier to recruitment and CSEA fought in this year’s budget to eliminate this withholding.

4. Next Week

This Week in Albany will not be published next week in observance of Independence Day. The next edition will be in your inbox on July 12.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Don’t Forget to Vote! 

1. Get Out the Vote!

Election Day is this Tuesday, June 25! Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Early voting is also available through June 23. Make a plan to vote! You can check your registration, find your polling place and view CSEA’s endorsements in your region here. Voting is an important way to show the strength of our union and to elect representatives that protect workers, fight for better wages and benefits, and reflect our values. Make sure to vote!

2. Legislative Victory: The LOADing Act

Each week, we’ll be highlighting one of CSEA’s legislative victories from this past session. This week, we’re highlighting the LOADing Act (S.7543/A.9430). This first-in-the-nation legislation regulates the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the public sector. The use of AI is on the rise in every industry, including public service. While the use of AI isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it’s important to ensure that its use is regulated, that it does not replace workers and that humans still have oversight of critical decision-making. All of this is wrapped up in the LOADing Act, which includes groundbreaking employee protection language that will prohibit the displacement of state employees when a state agency uses an AI program or system. Additionally, this legislation would ban the use of AI for the delivery of public assistance benefits and requires impact studies be conducted before AI systems can be used to make consequential decisions.

This bill passed both houses of the State Legislature and is awaiting action by Governor Hochul. If signed, this would be a significant victory for workers nationwide, as other states will likely use this legislation as a model for AI regulation. CSEA will be monitoring this legislation closely and urging the Governor to sign it into law.

3. OSC Posts Pension Returns

New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that the New York State Common Retirement Fund’s investment return was 11.55% for the state fiscal year that ended March 31, 2024. The Fund closed the year with an estimated value of $267.7 billion.

4. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

The 2024 Legislative Session is Done!
1. Session Ends

Early Saturday morning, the New York State Assembly adjourned for the year, following the Senate’s adjournment late Friday. This marks the end of the 2024 New York State Legislative Session. CSEA had a successful legislative session, including a massive Tier 6 victory in the state budget. In addition, our union was successful in getting several positive bills done after the budget. There were substantive changes to the civil service system, a first-in-the-nation law to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) in the public sector, and several bills to protect and support workers. Check out the full write-up of CSEA’s successes this session here.

2. Early Voting Begins June 15

Early Voting for the Primary Election begins Saturday, June 15, and runs to Sunday, June 23. This is a great way to vote quickly and conveniently. You don’t need to wait for Election Day! Times and locations vary by county. Click here for more information about early voting in your county and find your polling place. For information on CSEA’s endorsed candidates, click here.

3. Siela Bynoe for State Senate

Siela Bynoe has always fought for CSEA as a Nassau County Legislator. That is why CSEA has proudly endorsed her as she runs for the NYS Senate in the 6^th District. We need her voice in Albany. Click below to see highlights of her experience standing up for Long Islanders and workers in Nassau County. For more information on CSEA primary endorsements, visit cseany.org/vote.

4. OSC Workforce Report

The Office of the State Comptroller published a report on state workforce trends from 2014-2023. Unsurprisingly, the report shows that the state workforce has declined significantly over the last decade, losing about 7% of total staff since 2014. However, there are some signs of improvement. The workforce grew by about 3% from 2022 to 2023 and the amount of overtime worked has dropped significantly in several state agencies. However, we still have a lot of work to do to reduce the reliance on overtime, especially at agencies like OMH, OPWDD, and DOCCS. You can read the full report here.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Session Running Long

1. Legislative Session Continues

Despite a scheduled end date of June 6, both houses of the State Legislature have yet to adjourn for the year. This week, Governor Hochul unexpectedly halted the plan for congestion pricing in New York City that was scheduled to take effect at the end of June. This creates a $1 billion revenue hole that legislators are scrambling to fill. This road bump has delayed progress on other legislative priorities, which in turn has kept the legislature in session for longer than anticipated. Both houses are expected to work late into the night this evening, and there is a possibility that they continue working into the weekend or even next week. However, CSEA-supported bills have made substantial progress in the last few days. We will provide a full report of our successes after the legislature has adjourned.

2. Mannion Responds to Criticisms

CSEA-endorsed candidate for Congress John Mannion released a video in response to his opponent’s attacks on his record. CSEA has worked closely with Mannion for years and stands by his solid record fighting for CSEA members, including his support for Tier 6 reform and aid to OPWDD/OMH and SUNY Upstate. Click the video below to see his response.

3. Register to Vote!

Primary elections are around the corner, and your vote matters! If you’re not registered, there’s still time. You can register to vote online until June 15. You can also register in person at your local Board of Elections or any state agency on or before June 15. If you want to register by mail, your application must be received by the Board of Elections no later than June 15.

4. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

One week to go! 

1. Final Week of Session

Next week is the final week of the 2024 Legislative Session! With only four days left, both houses will be working to pass all of their end-of-session priorities. Hundreds of bills will pass in these final days. CSEA will be reviewing each of them to determine their impact on members.  

2. CSEA-Supported Bills Make Progress

Several CSEA-supported bills made progress this week, including:

• A.6146 (Buttenschon) / S.5500 (Skoufis): This bill would require that public employees are notified if their personnel records are made public due to a FOIL request. This bill advanced out of committee in the Assembly.

• A.7341 (Hevesi) / S.6357 (Mannion): This bill would allow child protective services workers to complete certain trainings virtually through distance learning methods freeze. This bill has passed both houses of the legislature.

• A.9003 (Eachus) / S.4132 (Mannion): This bill would prohibit outsourcing during a hiring freeze. This bill passed the Assembly.

• A.9349 (Pheffer Amato) / S.8551 (Jackson): This bill would require the Department of Civil Service to review exams every 5 years and update questions as needed. This bill has passed both houses of the legislature.

A full report on our legislative successes will be released after session.

3. Double Pension Payments

CSEA retirees may have seen an additional pension payment hit their accounts this week. The State Comptroller released a statement recognizing this error and has said that these payments will be withdrawn by today, May 31.

4. Next Week

It’s the final week of session! The State Legislature will convene on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday next week. The legislature is likely to work well into Friday and possibly the weekend.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Only 7 Session Days Remain! 

1. Memorial Day

On Memorial Day, we remember those who have paid the ultimate price in service to our nation. We owe an immense debt of gratitude to the brave few that gave everything to protect our freedoms and way of life. As you gather with friends and family this Memorial Day weekend, please take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of this holiday– to remember the fallen and honor their sacrifice.

2. CSEA-Supported Bills Make Progress

Several CSEA-supported bills made progress this week, including:

• A.7341 (Hevesi) / S.6357 (Mannion): This bill would allow Child Protective Services workers to complete certain required training through distance learning methods. This bill passed the Assembly and advanced out of committee in the Senate.

• A.9003 (Eachus) / S.4132 (Mannion): This bill prevents outsourcing during a hiring freeze. This bill advanced out of committee in the Assembly.

• A.9349 (Pheffer Amato) / S.8551 (Jackson): This bill would require the Department of Civil Service to review and update exams every five years. This bill advanced out of committee in the Senate.

CSEA will be working hard to ensure that these bills, and others, cross the finish line before the end of session on June 6.

3. School District Election Results

Nearly all of CSEA’s endorsed candidates for school board were successful in their elections on Tuesday. CSEA also endorsed several school budgets, all of which passed.  Across the state, 97 percent of school budgets passed; for the 3 percent that failed, the districts may put forward an amended budget for a district wide vote on June 18.

Click here to see results of CSEA school endorsements in your region.

4. DOCCS Commissioner Confirmed

The New York State Senate has confirmed Daniel Martuscello III as the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS). Martuscello has served as the Acting Commissioner since June 9, 2023.

5. Next Week

The State Legislature will convene on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday next week. There are seven scheduled session days remaining in the year.

6. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

School Board Elections are on May 21!

1. CSEA-Supported Bills Make Progress

Several CSEA-supported bills made progress this week, including two bills that advanced out of committee:

• A.7341 (Hevesi) / S.6357 (Mannion): This legislation allows Child Protective Services workers to complete certain required training through distance learning methods.

• A.9529 (Hevesi) / S.8426 (Skoufis): This legislation would allow OCFS to establish minimum staff-to-child ratios lower than what is allowable in current law for family day care homes, group family day care homes, school age day care programs, and day care centers.

CSEA will be working hard to ensure that these bills, and others, cross the finish line before the end of session on June 6.

2. School Board Elections

Elections for School Board and School District Budgets are on May 21! These elections have a huge impact on the thousands of CSEA members across the state employed in schools. CSEA members have endorsed a number of school board candidates through our member driven endorsement process. Use this link to find CSEA-endorsed candidates in your region.

3. New Commissioners

The New York State Senate has confirmed two new commissioners this week:

• Barbara Guinn as Commissioner of the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA)

• Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden as Commissioner of the state Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS)

4. Next Week

The State Legislature will convene on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday next week. There are 11 scheduled session days remaining in the year.

5. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

1. CSEA-Supported Bills Make Progress

Now that the budget is done, CSEA has shifted focus to our end-of-session legislative priorities. Several CSEA-supported bills have made progress, including:

• A.8876 (Pheffer Amato) / S.8216 (Jackson): This legislation authorizes a person who is within one year of the minimum age or education requirements of a civil service position to sit for an examination. The goal of this bill is to recruit younger employees who will be graduates from high school, college, or other career training programs.

• A.9386 (Pheffer Amato) / S.8557 (Jackson): This legislation would allow time spent in a provisional title to count towards any time required to take a promotional exam.

• A.9349 (Pheffer Amato) / S.8551 (Jackson): This legislation requires the Department of Civil Service to review exams every five years and update questions as needed.

CSEA will be working hard to ensure that these bills, and others, cross the finish line before the end of session on June 6.

2. New York’s Equal Rights Amendment

In November, your General Election ballot was supposed to include a referendum on New York’s Equal Rights Amendment, which would enshrine the right to an abortion and include protections against gender discrimination in the State Constitution. However, this week, the Supreme Court ruled the amendment “null and void” due to a procedural misstep, removing it from consideration. Democrats are expected to appeal this decision.

3. Cooney Appointed Transportation Chair

State Sen. Jeremy Cooney, who represents parts of Monroe County, was selected to serve as the new Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. The committee, formerly led by Tim Kennedy, deals with legislation and programs related to the Departments of Transportation (DOT) and Motor Vehicles (DMV), the New York State Thruway Authority, and various regional transportation authorities and commissions, including the MTA.

4. Social Security Trust Fund

This week, the Social Security Board of Trustees released its annual report on the financial status of the Social Security Trust Funds. According to the report, the Trust Funds are projected to have enough dedicated revenue to pay all scheduled benefits and associated administrative costs until 2035, one year later than projected last year.

5. Next Week

The State Legislature will convene on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday next week. There are 15 scheduled session days remaining in the year.

6. 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 CSEA’s summary of the 2024-2025 Enacted Budget here.

Tier 6 Reform:

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Kennedy Wins!

1. Kennedy Wins in Congressional District 26

CSEA-endorsed candidate Tim Kennedy won his House of Representatives race for the 26th Congressional District, defeating challenger Gary Dickens. The 26th Congressional District, which includes Buffalo and Niagara Falls, has been vacant since U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins’ retirement in February. Kennedy will serve the remainder of Higgins’ term and will need to run again in November to be elected for a full two-year term.

CSEA was proud to endorse Kennedy, who has consistently demonstrated his support for union members and the services they provide. As a State Senator, Kennedy has championed Tier 6 reform and fought to keep Western New York Children’s Psychiatric Center open.

2. New Secretary of State

Gov. Kathy Hochul has nominated former Assemblymember Walter Mosley to serve as New York’s next Secretary of State. From 2013-2020,  Mosley represented the 57th Assembly District in Brooklyn. The Secretary of State leads the Department of State and plays an important role in overseeing business operations, public safety, and consumer protection across New York. Mosley must be confirmed by the State Senate.

3. Next Week

The State Legislature returns to Albany from break next week, with sessions scheduled on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Now that the budget is done, lawmakers will shift their focus to their end-of-session legislative priorities. There are only 18 scheduled session days remaining in the year.

4. 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!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

What’s in the Final Budget? 

1. Final Budget

On Saturday, April 20, a final budget was passed by both houses of the State Legislature. This budget includes a substantial improvement to Tier 6, boosting the pension for Tier 6 members by using an employee’s top 3 consecutive earning years, instead of 5, to calculate their final average salary. The budget also contains several other provisions that will benefit the CSEA workforce, including:

• Extending a law that excludes overtime earnings when calculating a Tier 6 employee’s contribution rate.
• Eliminating the 5-day salary withholding program for state employees beginning on July 1, 2024.
• Stopping the lag payroll for newly hired state employees beginning on July 1, 2025.
• Creating 200 new inpatient beds in Office of Mental Health facilities.
• Increasing funding for local governments by $50 million. This is the first increase in several years.
• Rejecting the Governor’s proposal to remove the state’s “hold harmless” provision, which would have resulted in many school districts receiving less state aid than last year.
• Increasing the Medicaid reimbursement rate for hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living programs.
• Requiring all counties to pay childcare providers a minimum of 10% more for providing nontraditional hours of care and care to children who are experiencing homelessness.

You can read CSEA’s full summary of the enacted budget here. While this budget was good for CSEA members, unfortunately, the budget also provides the governor with the ability to close up to five Department of Correction and Community Supervision (DOCCS) facilities with only 90 days’ notice. We will work with Governor Hochul to ensure that members in DOCCS are protected and given job opportunities at nearby facilities.

2. Early Voting Still Available in CD26

There is still time to vote early in Congressional District 26! Early voting concludes on Sunday, April 28. You can also vote on Election Day, Tuesday, April 30. CSEA has endorsed State Sen. Tim Kennedy, who has been a huge advocate for CSEA and a strong voice for Western New York. Click here for the CSEA profile on Senator Kennedy in The Work Force.

Make a plan to vote! For times and locations, use these helpful links:

Erie County Voter Information

Niagara County Voter Information

3. Next Week

The State Legislature is not scheduled to convene until next Monday, May 6. When the legislature returns, there are only 18 scheduled session days remaining in the year.

4. 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!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Budget Agreement Reached!

1.  State Budget Progress

This week, a final agreement was reached on the State Budget. Now, the legislature must pass 10 budget bills, which will then head to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk for final approval. As of this publication, four of these bills have passed, including three Article VII bills on Public Protection & General Government; Transportation, Economic Development and Environmental Conservation; and Revenue. We are still waiting for Education, Labor, and Family Assistance; Health and Mental Hygiene; and the appropriations bills. The legislature is expected to work late tonight and into the weekend to pass the remaining bills.

2. What’s in the Budget?

While we haven’t seen all of the bills yet, but there are already several wins for CSEA members in this year’s budget, including:

• A 2-year extension on the exclusion of overtime wages from pension contribution calculations. This ensures that CSEA members don’t have to pay a higher contribution because they worked overtime.

• A 2.84% Cost-of-Living-Adjustment for OPWDD non-profit providers, which includes a guaranteed 1.7% salary increase for workers.

• An elimination of the 5-day salary withholding for new state employees.

Unfortunately, the final budget also provides the governor with the authority to close up to five state correctional facilities with only 90-day’s notice.

We are continuing to review the final budget and will provide a full summary in next week’s publication.

3. Early Voting Available in CD-26

CSEA-endorsed candidate Senator Tim Kennedy is running in a Special Election for Congressional District 26 (parts of Erie and Niagara Counties). Tim has been a huge advocate for CSEA and a strong voice for Western New York. Click here for The Work Force’s feature on Senator Kennedy

Early Voting for this race begins Saturday and runs through April 28. Make a plan to vote! For times and locations, use these helpful links:

Erie County Voter Information

Niagara County Voter Information

4. Next Week

The State Legislature is expected to convene throughout the weekend to finish passing budget bills. Once they finish, they are not scheduled to convene again until May 6.

5. 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!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

More Extenders, Still No Budget 

1. “The Beginning of the End”

According to Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, budget negotiations have reached what she calls, “the beginning of the end.” We are now 11 days past the April 1 deadline and no agreements on the sticking points of housing, education or Medicaid have been announced.

2. More Extenders

Additional extenders were passed this week to ensure that state government remains operational. However, another extender must be passed by Tuesday, April 16, to ensure that members on the institution payroll are paid on time.  

3. We’re Not Done Fighting For Tier 6 Reform

We’re still pushing to ensure that Tier 6 reform is included in the final budget, and we need your help! Send a letter  here and make sure your friends and co-workers do, too!

4. Assemblymember Jean-Pierre Not Seeking Re-Election

On Monday, Assemblymember Kimberly Jean-Pierre announced she won’t be seeking re-election in November. Jean-Pierre represents parts of Suffolk County and currently serves as Chair of the Assembly Committee on Veterans Affairs. Jean-Pierre was first elected to the State Assembly in 2014.

5. Next Week

The State Legislature will meet on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. State Legislators are scheduled to recess for Passover starting April 18.

6. 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!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Another Extender Passed! 

1. Still No Final Budget

Despite a deadline of April 1, there is still no agreement on a final state budget. However, the State Legislature and the governor are reportedly close to a deal on housing, which is one of the primary issues hindering progress. Other issues like Medicaid, education, and revenue are being discussed amongst leadership, with progress unclear.

2. Another Budget Extender Passed

On Thursday, the State Legislature approved a budget extender to fund the state through April 8. This extender ensures that CSEA members employed by the Division of Military Affairs will be paid on time. To make sure that CSEA members on the administrative payroll receive a timely paycheck, the state must approve another extender by Monday, April 8 at noon.

3. Keep Pushing for Tier 6 Reform!

Each day without a final budget means another day to push for Tier 6 reform! If you’ve already sent a letter, make sure to spread the news and get your friends and co-workers involved as well. Have them send a letter here. Let’s make sure Tier 6 reform is included in the final budget!

4. Next Week

The State Assembly will convene Sunday to pass an extender, and then again on Tuesday. The State Senate will be in on Monday and Tuesday.

5. 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!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Budget is Late; Extender Passed!

1. The State Budget Will Be Late

We will not have a final state budget by the April 1 deadline. Legislators left Albany on Thursday and are not set to return until Tuesday, April 2. On budget negotiations, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “We’re in the middle of the middle.” The main issues delaying an agreement are Medicaid funding, education funding and affordable housing.

2. Budget Extender Passed

Prior to leaving, the State Legislature passed a budget extender to fund the state through April 4. This means that even though the state budget will be late, CSEA members will get next week’s paycheck on time and there will be no interruptions in state government services. This extension provides additional time for the State Senate, Assembly and the Governor to reach an agreement on a final budget.

3. The Final Push for Tier 6

Though the budget is late, Governor Hochul and leadership in both houses of the state legislature are honing in on a final agreement. There are several issues that are competing for precedence in these negotiations, and we need to ensure Tier 6 reform remains one of them! Keep the pressure on by sending a letter to your legislators. Let’s make sure Tier 6 reform is included in the final budget!

4. Federal Government Shutdown Averted

On Saturday, President Biden signed a $1.2 trillion bipartisan spending package into law, which will fund the federal government through the end of September. We are in the process of reviewing this package to determine its impact on CSEA members in New York State.

5. Next Week

The State Legislature will be in session on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

6. 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!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

The budget is due April 1!

1. Budget Deadline Approaching

The final state budget is due on April 1. Negotiations are happening around the clock, as leaders in the State Senate and Assembly seek to find agreement with Governor Hochul. However, the pace appears slow and with the Easter holiday, the budget may be adopted after the deadline. It is expected that housing, along with funding for education, Medicaid and hospitals, will be the main sticking points that delay a final agreement.

2. Keep the Pressure on to Fix Tier 6!

Now that we are entering the final week of budget negotiations, we need to keep the pressure on to ensure that Tier 6 reforms are included in the final budget. Both the Senate and Assembly included Tier 6 reforms in their one-house budgets, so we need them to prioritize these provisions in negotiations with the governor. Send a letter to your legislators here. Get involved and spread the word to let legislators know that we need Tier 6 reform!

3. Federal Budget Progress

This afternoon, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a $1.2 trillion bipartisan spending package to fund the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, and other programs that were not funded in the previous deal enacted on March 8. The package still needs to be approved by the U.S. Senate and signed by President Biden to take effect. This package must be enacted before midnight tonight to avert a partial government shutdown.

4. Next Week

The State Legislature will be in session on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

5. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click the icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

One-House Budgets Released! 

1. Senate & Assembly Release Budgets

This week, the State Assembly and Senate released their one-house budgets, which are each house’s response to Governor Kathy Hochul’s Executive Budget. There are several positive elements of the proposals for CSEA members, including fixes to Tier 6, eliminating the salary withholding and deferral programs for state employees, and funding increases to schools, libraries, local governments, and childcare providers. Now, both houses will negotiate with Governor Hochul to hash out a final budget. The final budget is due by April 1.

2. Renewed Call to Action: Fix Tier 6!

Since the Senate and Assembly included Tier 6 reforms in their one-house budgets, we need to make sure that legislators continue to fight to ensure that these proposals are in the final budget. We need your help to keep the pressure on! We have a new letter that you can send to your legislators here. Even if you’ve already participated in this campaign, it is important to take action again and let legislators know that we’re seeing this fight through until the end!

3. Government Shutdown Averted

Late on Friday, March 8, President Joe Biden signed a $467.5 billion spending package to fund the Departments of Agriculture, Justice, Commerce, Energy, Interior, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, and Housing and Urban Development through September 30. Federal lawmakers acted with little time to spare, narrowly avoiding a partial government shutdown that was set to take effect early on March 9. However, funding for all other federal agencies is set to run out on March 22, meaning that lawmakers will need to come to another agreement soon.

4. Next Week

The State Assembly and Senate budget conference committees begin meeting next week. These are the collective bodies that hash out the budgetary disagreements between both houses. This is the next step in the process of reaching agreement on a final budget. The State Legislature will be in session on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

5. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click the icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Keep the Pressure on to FIX TIER 6! 

1. Continuing the Fight for Tier 6 Reform

On Tuesday at the New York State Capitol, hundreds of union members, allies and lawmakers rallied in support of improving Tier 6 benefits in this year’s state budget. You can contribute to this fight, no matter where you are, by sending a letter to your legislators here, and encouraging other members to get involved with this campaign! We need to keep the pressure on and make sure our legislators know that CSEA members demand improvements to Tier 6.

2. Assemblymember Weinstein Retires

Assemblymember Helene Weinstein, who chairs the powerful Ways and Means Committee, has announced that she will be retiring after this term. Weinstein has served in the Assembly for 44 years, representing parts of Brooklyn in the 41st Assembly District. She joins the more than 15 members of the State Legislature who have announced that they will be retiring or not seeking re-election.

3. Government Shutdown Possible

On Wednesday, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to approve a $467.5 billion spending package to fund the Departments of Agriculture, Justice, Commerce, Energy, Interior, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, and Housing and Urban Development through September 30. The spending package cleared a procedural hurdle in the U.S. Senate this afternoon, but as of this publication, it is unclear if the package will be enacted before midnight, when a partial government shutdown is set to take effect. The deadline for all other federal agencies is quickly approaching–March 22–and lawmakers are reportedly far from an agreement on spending for the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, State, and the other remaining departments.

4. Next Week

The State Assembly and Senate are expected to release their one-house budgets next week. These budgets are each house’s response to Governor Hochul’s Executive Budget and will set the stage for budget negotiations that will ensue in the coming weeks. The State Legislature will be also be in session on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of next week.

5. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click the icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Tell your legislators to FIX TIER 6! 

1. Fight for Tier 6

We’re calling on the State Legislature to take significant action in this year’s budget to improve our pension benefits. Without changes to Tier 6, the public sector staffing crisis will only get worse, which will lead to more mandatory overtime and the burnout of existing staff. Let’s make sure our legislators know that CSEA members demand improvements to Tier 6. Send a letter to your legislators here, and encourage other members to get involved with this campaign!

2. 2024 Congressional Lines

This week, the State Legislature voted down the Congressional district lines proposed by the Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC). Shortly after, the legislature released their own maps, which they voted to approve on Wednesday. These maps were signed into law by Governor Hochul. The New York GOP has indicated that they will not challenge these maps in court. Check out the new maps below. An interactive map is also available here.

3. Short-term Funding Deal Reached

On Thursday, Congress passed a short-term spending deal to fund the Departments of Agriculture, Justice, Commerce, Energy, Interior, Transportation and Housing and Urban Development through March 8. The deal funds all other departments through March 22. This deal averts a partial government shutdown that would have taken effect today, March 1.

4. Legislators Not Seeking Re-election

There will be several open State Senate and Assembly seats this year, as the following legislators have announced that they will not be seeking re-election:

Senate

• Kevin Thomas, Senate District 6
• Neil Breslin, Senate District 46
• John Mannion, Senate District 50 (Running for Congress)
• Tim Kennedy, Senate District 63 (Running for Congress)

Assembly

• Fred Thiele, Assembly District 1
• Taylor Darling, Assembly District 18 (Running for State Senate)
• Jeffrion Aubry, Assembly District 35
• Daniel O’Donnell, Assembly District 69
• Inez Dickens, Assembly District 70
• Kenneth Zebrowski, Assembly District 96
• Aileen Gunther, Assembly District 100
• Patricia Fahy, Assembly District 109 (Running for State Senate)
• Marjorie Byrnes, Assembly District 133
• Joseph Giglio, Assembly District 148
• Andrew Goodell, Assembly District 150

5. Next Week

The State Legislature will be in session on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of next week.

6. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click the icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

It’s the legislature’s week off! 

1. Commissioner Seggos to Step Down

Basil Seggos, commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), announced Wednesday that he will be stepping down from the role after the end of budget negotiations. Seggos has led the DEC since October 2015, the longest tenure a commissioner has served in that department.

2. Gunther & Goodell Not Seeking Re-election

This week, Assemblymember Aileen Gunther, who represents the 100th Assembly District comprising parts of Sullivan and Orange Counties, and Assemblymember Andy Goodell, who represents the 150th Assembly District comprising all of Chautauqua County, announced that they will not be seeking re-election in November.

Gunther and Goodell have served in the State Assembly for 21 and 14 years, respectively.

3. Proposed Congressional Maps

Since last week, when the Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) approved a new set of congressional maps, many Democrats have been vocal in their criticisms, urging the State Legislature to reject the IRC’s proposal. The legislature is expected to vote on this proposal next week. If they decide to reject, the legislature will then have the opportunity to draft their own maps.

4. Government Shutdown Looms

Congress must act to fund the federal government by March 1, when the first stopgap measure expires, and then on March 8, when funding for the rest of the federal government expires. In January, House Speaker Mike Johnson announced a $1.6 trillion deal with the U.S. Senate to fund the government, though disagreements about where the money should be spent have persisted for several weeks. Now, the House Freedom Caucus is pressuring Speaker Johnson to put forward a year-long stopgap funding bill, which would trigger automatic 1% cuts to government spending. CSEA will be monitoring this situation closely to determine how any developments will impact CSEA members.

5. Next Week

The State Legislature is back next week, with session days scheduled on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. The legislature is expected to vote on the proposed congressional maps.

6. REMINDER: PEOPLE Rewards

All PEOPLE contributors should have received an email from AFSCME regarding PEOPLE Rewards. AFSCME is transitioning away from rewards points and they are set to expire March 1, 2024.  To redeem your points prior to the expiration, AFSCME has included detailed instructions on how to login to access the PEOPLE Rewards online store. Click here for instructions.

7. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click the icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Election results are in!

1. Section 80 Law Goes into Effect

Last year, CSEA was successful in getting a bill passed to provide standardized protections to all Competitive, Non-Competitive, and Labor Class employees during layoffs. Previously, there was no process in place for layoffs of Labor Class employees or Non-Competitive Class employees working in local government, which allowed employers to pick and choose which employees were laid off. The law will go into effect on Monday, February 19. For more information, check out our flyer here.

2. Governor’s 30-day Amendments

On Thursday, Governor Hochul provided amendments to her executive budget proposal. CSEA is reviewing these changes to determine their impact, if any, on CSEA members. The legislature will now be reviewing the budget and crafting their one-house budget proposals, which will be released around the second week of March.

3. Suozzi Wins in CD-3

CSEA-endorsed candidate Tom Suozzi was successful in his bid for the 3rd Congressional District, defeating challenger Mazi Pilip in a race that garnered national attention. This victory wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated work of CSEA members, who contacted thousands of labor households to encourage them to vote. Suozzi expressed his thanks to CSEA and other labor unions in his victory speech.  

4. Dais Wins in AD-77

Landon Dais defeated challenger Norman McGill in the special election for the 77th Assembly District, which encompasses parts of the Bronx. Dais will replace former Assemblymember Latoya Joyner, who resigned in early January after accepting a job in the private sector. CSEA did not endorse in this race.

5. Proposed Congressional Maps

On Thursday, the Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) approved a new set of congressional maps, which, if approved by the State Legislature, will be used for this year’s congressional elections. These maps are largely unchanged from the current congressional districts with only relatively minor adjustments to three upstate districts.  The new maps give a slight enrollment boost to Democrats in NY-22 (Central NY) and NY-18 (Hudson Valley), while providing a similar enrollment boost to Republicans in NY-19 (Central NY and Hudson Valley). The State Legislature will have the final say on whether these maps will be adopted. If they vote down the IRC’s maps, the legislature will then have the opportunity to draft their own.

6. Pension Posts Returns

On Tuesday, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli announced that the New York State Common Retirement Fund investments returned an estimated 6.18% in the third quarter of Fiscal Year 2024, above the expected return of 5.9%. The estimated value of the fund was $259.9 billion at the end of the quarter.

7. Next Week

The State Legislature is on break next week, so there are no session days scheduled. However, members of both houses will be working behind closed doors to develop their respective one-house budget proposals.  

8. REMINDER: PEOPLE Rewards

All PEOPLE contributors should have received an email from AFSCME regarding PEOPLE Rewards. AFSCME is transitioning away from rewards points and they are set to expire March 1, 2024.  To redeem your points prior to the expiration, AFSCME has included detailed instructions on how to login to access the PEOPLE Rewards online store. Click here for instructions.

9. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click the icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Election Day in CD-3 is February 13! 

1. CD-3 Special Election

Election Day for the 3rd Congressional District, which encompasses parts of Nassau County and Queens, is on Tuesday, February 13. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. – 9 p.m. However, there is still time to take advantage of early voting this Saturday and Sunday. You can find early voting locations and times for Nassau County and Queens County on our website.

The race between Tom Suozzi and Mazi Pilip has garnered national attention, as Republicans in the House of Representatives look to retain their majority in the chamber, which they hold by a slim seven-seat margin. The results of this election are also expected to foreshadow the successes of Republicans and Democrats in elections later this year.

This seat was vacated late last year, after the House voted to remove U.S. Rep. George Santos from office. CSEA has endorsed Tom Suozzi, who has had a long relationship with CSEA, particularly with members in Nassau County. He has always stood with CSEA members and his work in Congress demonstrated his support for public employees.

2. U.S. Rep. Higgins Resigns

U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins, who represents parts of western New York, including Buffalo and Niagara Falls, formally resigned on Friday, February 2. U.S. Rep. Higgins announced his intentions to retire in late November 2023. Gov. Kathy Hochul has until Monday, February 12, to announce the date of a special election for the open seat. CSEA has proudly endorsed State Sen. Tim Kennedy to replace Higgins.

3. Next Week

The State Legislature will be wrapping up budget hearings next week, with hearings on mental hygiene, taxes, and housing. The legislature will also be in session for three days, meeting on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

The Governor has until Thursday, February 15, to issue her 30-day amendments to her budget proposal. These amendments can be technical in nature or include wholesale additions. We will have a report in next week’s report on what was included.

4. REMINDER: PEOPLE Rewards

All PEOPLE contributors should have received an email from AFSCME regarding PEOPLE Rewards. AFSCME is transitioning away from rewards points and they are set to expire March 1, 2024.  To redeem your points prior to the expiration, AFSCME has included detailed instructions on how to login to access the PEOPLE Rewards online store. Click here for instructions.

5. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click the icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

CSEA Testifies Before the Legislature! 

1. CSEA Testifies

On Tuesday, CSEA testified at the Joint Legislative Public Hearing on Labor and Workforce Development to discuss the provisions of Governor Hochul’s executive budget and other proposals that impact CSEA members. CSEA highlighted the erosion of the public sector workforce and spoke about a number of potential solutions to the recruitment and retention crisis, including fixing Tier 6, eliminating salary withholdings and lag pay for new state employees, and streamlining onboarding processes.

CSEA will be working hard in the upcoming session to advocate for these changes and other proposals to improve recruitment and retention of the public sector workforce. You can read CSEA’s full testimony here and watch the video of our testimony here.

2. Breslin Will Not Seek Reelection

State Sen. Neil Breslin, who represents parts of Albany, Schenectady, and Montgomery counties, announced on Wednesday that he will not be seeking reelection in November. Breslin is the longest tenured member of the State Senate, elected in 1996. Breslin chairs the Senate Committees on Insurance, Ethics and Internal Governance, and the Legislative Ethics Commission.

3. Federal Budget Progress

On Monday, congressional negotiators reached an agreement on how much money will be allocated to each of the 12 bills Congress must pass to fund the government. This comes after a previous agreement between Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Mike Johnson on the overall spending levels for the fiscal year, inching us closer to a final budget deal.

4. Early Voting

CSEA-endorsed U.S. House candidate Tom Suozzi is running in a close Special Election in the 3rd Congressional District (parts of Nassau County and Queens). CSEA’s endorsement is based on Tom Suozzi’s history of fighting for CSEA members. As a moderate, he knows how to work with both parties to get things done.  

Early Voting will run from February 3 to 11. Make a plan to vote!

For times and locations, use these helpful links:

Nassau County Early Voting Information

Queens Early Voting Information

5. REMINDER: PEOPLE Rewards

All PEOPLE contributors should have received an email from AFSCME regarding PEOPLE Rewards. AFSCME is transitioning away from rewards points and they are set to expire March 1, 2024.  To redeem your points prior to the expiration, AFSCME has included detailed instructions on how to login to access the PEOPLE Rewards online store. Click here for instructions.

6. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click the icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Legislative budget hearings begin! 

1. Budget Hearings

This week, the State Senate and Assembly began budget preparations in earnest, with their first three Joint Legislative Budget Hearings on Health, Transportation, and Public Protection. At these hearings, commissioners of state agencies, advocacy groups, and others testified about the provisions in Governor Hochul’s executive budget. Witnesses had the opportunity to advocate for additional provisions and funding for the organizations and issues they care about, as well as to support the governor’s proposals. These hearings will continue each week through mid-February.

To learn more about Governor Hochul’s executive budget proposal, click here.

2. Dickens & Zebrowski Not Seeking Re-election

This week, Assemblymember Inez Dickens, who represents the 70th Assembly District comprising parts of Manhattan, and Assemblymember Ken Zebrowski, who represents the 96th Assembly District comprising parts of Rockland County, announced that they will not be seeking re-election in November.

Dickens took her seat in 2017, while Zebrowski has served for 9 terms, since 2007.

3. Next Week

Joint Legislative Budget Hearings continue next week, with hearings on Economic Development & Arts, Workforce Development & Labor, Human Services, and Elementary and Secondary Education. CSEA will be providing testimony at the Workforce Development & Labor hearing on January 30. The legislature will also be in session for three days next week, meeting on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

4. REMINDER: PEOPLE Rewards

All PEOPLE contributors should have received an email from AFSCME regarding PEOPLE Rewards. AFSCME is transitioning away from rewards points and they are set to expire March 1, 2024.  To redeem your points prior to the expiration, AFSCME has included detailed instructions on how to login to access the PEOPLE Rewards online store. Click here for instructions.

5. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click the icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Executive Budget Released! 

1. Executive Budget

This week, Governor Hochul released her proposal for the Fiscal Year 2024-25 New York State Budget. CSEA staff have been combing through page-by-page to identify provisions that impact members. There are a number of wins for CSEA members in this proposal, including:

• Removing the 5-day salary withholding for state employees, which will provide additional money up front for new hires.
• Creating 125 new inpatient beds, which will be operated by the Office of Mental Health (OMH).
• Increasing Medicaid funding, which will channel additional funds to our state-operated hospitals.

There are also significant funding increases to the state agencies where our members work, including the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Office of General Services (OGS), Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), and the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS).

Unfortunately, there are also several proposals in this budget that would harm our members. CSEA will be working diligently to oppose these proposals and ensure that they are not included in the final budget. These proposals include:

• Allowing the Governor to close up to five DOCCS facilities.
• Removing the “hold harmless” provision that ensures that our school districts do not get a cut in funding year-over-year.

For more information, we’ve published a summary of the executive budget on the CSEA website. You can access the summary here. CSEA will be presenting our union’s positions on the budget proposal at the Joint Legislative Budget Hearing on Workforce Development and Labor, which will be held on January 30.

2. Waiving “Under the Hood” Test for Bus Drivers

On Wednesday, Governor Hochul announced that school bus driver applicants will be exempt from the engine compartment component of the Commercial Driver License (CDL) road test, also called the “under the hood” component. This will make it easier to get a CDL at a time when school bus drivers are desperately needed. During the road test, applicants will still be required to perform the remaining elements of the CDL vehicle inspection skills test. This new CDL classification, which is set to expire November 27, 2024, will restrict licensees to driving only school buses and only in New York State.

3. Governor Calls Special Election in AD-77

On Thursday, Governor Hochul announced that a special election will be held to fill the vacancy in the 77th Assembly District, which encompasses parts of the Bronx. The vacancy was created by the resignation of Assemblymember Latoya Joyner, who left office earlier this month. The election will be held on Tuesday, February 13, the same day as the special election to replace George Santos in New York’s 3rd Congressional District.

4. Government Shutdown Avoided

On Thursday, Congress passed a short-term funding bill to avert a partial government shutdown that was set to take effect at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, January 20. The measure extends the two-part funding deadlines to March 1 and March 8, continuing the same levels of funding from last year. House Speaker Mike Johnson faces mounting opposition from members of his party, who object to any compromise with Democrats and are demanding significant spending cuts. This short-term spending agreement may put Johnson’s speakership in peril, as a previous short-term spending bill was the catalyst for ousting previous Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

5. Next Week

Legislative budget hearings will begin in earnest next week, including hearings on transportation, health, and public protection. The legislature will also be in session for three days next week, meeting on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

6. PEOPLE Rewards Update

All PEOPLE contributors should have received an email from AFSCME regarding PEOPLE Rewards. AFSCME is transitioning away from rewards points and they are set to expire March 1, 2024.  To redeem your points prior to the expiration, AFSCME has included detailed instructions on how to login to access the PEOPLE Rewards online store. Click here for instructions.

7. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click on icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

It’s State of the State Week! 

1. Governor’s State of the State

On Tuesday, Governor Hochul delivered her 2024 State of the State Address, outlining her priorities for the year and providing a glimpse at what will be included in the Executive Budget. In her announcement, the governor outlined nearly 200 policy proposals, with a focus on public safety, mental health, and affordable housing. The governor also included commitments to bolster the public sector workforce, remove barriers to employment in government, recruit and retain health care workers and more. CSEA has been working hard to evaluate all of the proposals and their impact on CSEA members. These proposals will be outlined in more detail upon release of the governor’s Executive Budget on January 16.

2. Comptroller Announces Property Tax Cap

New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli announced this week that property tax levy growth for school districts and 10 of the state’s cities will be capped at 2%, the same as last year. The tax cap limits annual tax levy increases to the rate of inflation or 2%, whichever is lower.  The 2% tax cap affects 676 school districts and 10 cities with fiscal years starting July 1, 2024, including the “Big Four” cities of Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Yonkers.

3. CSEA Endorses Tim Kennedy

CSEA has proudly endorsed State Sen. Tim Kennedy in the race for the 26th Congressional District. Kennedy has continually proved his willingness to stand up for CSEA members. Kennedy has been steadfast in his support for Tier 6 reform and has demonstrated support for public employees and the services that they provide. Kennedy is looking to fill the seat currently occupied by U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins, who has announced his plans to resign in February.

4. Government Shutdown in Limbo

This week, a spending deal was announced between House Speaker Mike Johnson and Congressional Democrats to avert a federal government shutdown. However, in protest, 12 members of the House Freedom Caucus blocked the spending bills. The deal, which would have kept federal spending essentially flat, was not enough for these lawmakers, who have indicated a willingness to shut down the federal government if their demands for steep spending cuts are not met.

There are two upcoming deadlines by which Congress must come to an agreement to avoid a government shutdown: January 19 for agriculture, transportation, and housing programs; February 2 for everything else.

5. Next Week

January 16 is the last day for submission of the Executive Budget proposal. This is the kickoff to the budget process, where Governor Hochul will flesh out her spending proposals for the 2024-25 state fiscal year. The legislature will also be in session for two days next week, meeting on Tuesday and Wednesday.

6. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click on icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation:

Happy New Year! 

1. New Year, New Legislative Session

The 2024 New York State Legislative Session kicked off this week, with the Senate and Assembly convening on Wednesday to highlight their successes in the past year and to discuss their priorities moving forward. This year, the legislature is expected to focus on the major issues of housing, public safety, and the state’s influx of migrants. The legislature is slated to meet 61 days this session, giving them limited time to address these issues. The legislature will look to make progress as they grapple with the $4 billion budget deficit, which is expected to constrain their efforts. There is also one new member in the legislature this year. Sam Berger, who won a special election in 2023, is entering his first session as representative for the 27th Assembly District. CSEA will be working to to ensure that this session is productive for members.

2. Workplace Violence Law Goes into Effect

On Thursday, January 4, a new law went into effect that requires public schools and BOCES to develop and implement workplace violence prevention programs. Implementing workplace violence prevention plans in addition to existing school safety plans will better prepare schools to prevent and address workplace safety, while also ensuring that public school and BOCES employees feel secure and supported in their workplace. CSEA was successful in getting this law enacted in the 2023 Legislative Session.

3. Gov. Signs Even-year Elections Bill

At the end of December, Governor Hochul signed a controversial bill into law to move local government elections, which are normally held in odd-numbered years, to even-numbered years, coinciding with state and federal elections. This change does not apply to city or village elections, races for county clerk, sheriff, district attorneys, local judges, New York City elections, and other elections protected in the State Constitution. It is expected that many counties across the state will file suit in opposition to these changes. CSEA also opposed this bill, as our union is concerned that state and federal issues will overshadow important local issues. This law will go into effect in 2025.  

4. Next Week

On Tuesday, January 9, Governor Hochul will deliver her State of the State address, which is the annual opportunity for the executive to highlight her policy and budgetary priorities for the year. In the week leading up to the speech, the Governor has released a few snippets, which include funding for K-12 teacher retraining, improving literacy education, eliminating copayments for insulin and for pregnancy-related care, providing Paid Family Leave for prenatal care, making it harder for hospitals to sue patients to collect on medical debts, and more. The legislature will also be in session for two days next week, meeting on Monday and Tuesday.

5. CSEA Legislative Toolkit

We’re encouraging members to get the word out about our union’s 2023 legislative successes. Click on icons below for informational documents that you can print, share, and post on social media to spread the news!

Ambulance Direct Payments:

Bumping, Retreating and Rehiring Rights:

Civil Service Exam Announcements:

School Workplace Violence Prevention Programs:

Counting Provisional Time Toward Probation: