1. The State Budget is Late
Negotiations between the Governor and legislative leaders to finalize the State’s 2026-2027 budget continue this week. A final budget agreement was not reached prior to the start of the state’s fiscal year on April 1. To keep state government open, the Governor, Senate, and Assembly agreed to a short-term budget extender through April 7 that ensured CSEA Executive Branch members on the Institution payroll were paid on time. We do not anticipate a full budget being agreed to in the coming week due to the Easter and Passover holidays but expect another budget extender to be acted upon early next week.
CSEA remains focused on winning reforms to Tier 6, new safety measures for OCFS facilities, and increased funding for various state and local government programs in this year’s budget. Please visit the CSEA website – cseany.org/issues for updates and ways to take action.
2. Take Action on Tier 6 Reform
We need to make sure that the final State Budget includes meaningful reforms to Tier 6! CSEA continuing to fight for reduced employee contribution rates. This is a direct affordability fix that will impact every Tier 6 member. Write a letter to Governor Hochul and your legislators and urge them to reduce Tier 6 contribution rates in the final State Budget!
3. Employers Push Back on Tier 6 Reforms
Public employer groups released a joint press release this week, pushing back against proposed Tier 6 reforms and demanding that the state fully fund all costs associated with any changes. Governor Hochul has rejected this idea, with Budget Director Blake Washington saying, “shared responsibility in financing public sector pension systems has been the bedrock principle since they were created in the state of New York. That won’t change.”
4. Happy Holidays
Happy Easter and Passover to all who celebrate! Whether you’re spending time with family, attending services, or simply enjoying a few quiet days off, we hope you have a wonderful holiday.
5. Next Week
While no session days are scheduled for next week, the State Legislature must convene on Tuesday to pass an additional budget extender.
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 our summary of the 2025 legislative session.
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