March 29, 2024

Governor Hochul announces ratification of 3-year labor agreement with New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association

On March 28, 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul announced the ratification of a three-year labor agreement with the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association, which includes more than 17,000 members of the Security Services bargaining unit in titles such as correction officer, correction sergeant, and secure hospital treatment assistant. The agreement, which runs until March 31, 2026, won the approval of 73 percent of NYCOPBA member who cast ballots.

 

“This labor agreement will help to ensure that the brave members of the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association are fairly compensated for their tremendous contributions to our state,” Governor Hochul said. “I thank NYSCOPBA’s executive assembly for their partnership throughout negotiations and its membership for their hard work and dedication to keeping New Yorkers safe.”

 

The ratified contract includes raises in each year of the agreement consistent with other recently negotiated agreements. In addition, the contract includes other increases in compensation such as a lump sum bonus and up to 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave. The contract also includes changes in the health insurance program that will encourage in-network employee utilization and help control health insurance costs. 

 

New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association President Chris Summers said, “Since taking office, on more than one occasion, Governor Hochul has publicly praised our members for their dedication and hard work, day in and day out, despite very difficult and dangerous working conditions. Our members never had the option to work from home as many others did. The Governor’s Office and NYSCOPBA have recognized that working together now, and in the future, will help to resolve issues that our members are facing daily.”

 

New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Acting Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello III said, “I am pleased that an agreement has been reached to ensure the hardworking members of NYSCOPBA have a ratified contract that will deliver the compensation and benefits they deserve. I value our security staff for the extremely difficult job and the role they play in public safety. This contract has the ability to significantly impact our employee recruitment and retention efforts. I commend Governor Hochul and NYSCOPBA for working cooperatively to reach this labor agreement.”

 

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