As the new year begins, CSEA, other unions and elected officials across New York are standing together to fight for unrestricted federal aid to the state.
CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan recently joined New York’s highest elected officials and labor leaders in sending a joint letter to the state’s Congressional delegation reminding them of the need for additional federal resources to help New York deal with the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.
“Families are suffering in our communities, and people are worried about how to put food on their tables and keep a roof over their heads,” Sullivan said. “We cannot afford more job cuts. We urged them to remember this as they deliberate over a $908 billion stimulus package which would address our state’s most immediate and pressing needs for relief.”
A link to the full letter is posted on cseany.org.
Congressional leaders have been deliberating a $908 billion stimulus package that could be a down payment on the state’s economic needs. However, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has indicated that he will not support this package, as he continues to oppose efforts to provide states and local governments with direct assistance.
Without additional federal aid in the next few weeks, the economic pain felt by New Yorkers will sharply increase. While the state has largely held off on making any permanent budget cuts to date, that can’t be kept up forever without additional support.
The governor’s 2021-22 State Budget proposal is due to be released in January and proposals are expected to reflect the reality of the state’s economic condition.
CSEA members are urged to continue contacting your member of Congress and U.S. Senators to demand federal relief for our states and localities.
