Governor Cuomo and PBA of New York State announce tentative contract agreement
Source: Office of the Governor
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and Manuel M. Vilar, President of the Police Benevolent Association of New York State, on December 23, 2011 announced a contract agreement between the state and the labor union representing New York State's University Police, Park Police, EnCon Officers and Forest Rangers.
The agreement resolves outstanding wage and contractual issues dating to 2005 and provides the officers with a retroactive wage increase adjustment, ensures protections against layoffs, and offers health benefits commensurate with other state bargaining units. The agreement provides for zero percent wage increases for 2011-2013, a 2% increase in 2014, 9 days of deficit reduction leave, and adjustments to the health insurance premium.
The Agency Law Enforcement Services Unit (ALES) is composed of University police, Park Police, EnCon Officers and Forest Rangers. They have not had a contract since 2005 and were in arbitration for the years 2005-2007.
Highlights of the tentative agreement, which will require ratification by the full PBANYS membership, include:
· Zero percent wage increases for 2011-2013, a 2% increase in 2014,
· A $1,000 retention bonus paid out $775 in the third year and $225 in the fourth year
· Deficit Reduction Leave of five days this fiscal year and four days next fiscal year
· Retroactive payments that are scheduled to be paid in two installments -- one this fiscal year and one next fiscal year before the end of the calendar year.
· Health insurance premium share increase by 6% for both individual and families, making the share 16% for individuals and 31% for family premiums.
· Random drug testing and drug testing for probationary employees in addition to reasonable suspicion testing.
· A labor/management committee to review all leave taken by officers, including annual, personal, sick, workers compensation, and the manner of such use. Recommendations will be made to the President of the Union and the GOER Director for implementation.
· A health plan opt out so officers can opt out through a spouse/partner to a non-State health plan. Under the opt out, participants would receive $1,000 individual/$3,000 family
· Officers will receive broad layoff protection. Workforce reductions due to management decisions to close or restructure facilities authorized by legislation, SAGE recommendations or material or unanticipated changes in the state's fiscal circumstances are not covered by this limitation.
