'This Ratified Contract Recognizes that Shared Sacrifice is Needed'

Cuomo, PBA of New York State Announce Contract Ratification

Governor Andrew Cuomo and Manuel Vilar, President of the Police Benevolent Association of New York State, today announced the ratification of 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 union reports more than 95% of their members voted to ratify the contract.

The ratified contract resolves outstanding wage and contractual issues dating to 2005, ensures protections against layoffs, and offers health benefits commensurate with other state bargaining units. 

The contract 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. 

"By working together and taking into account the fiscal realities facing our state, we have been able to agree on a contract for these members of law enforcement who work each day to protect New Yorkers," Governor Cuomo said.

"This ratified contract recognizes that shared sacrifice is needed, and I thank President Vilar for his leadership."

"This overwhelming endorsement puts an end to years of uncertainty, anxiety and frustration for our members and their families. From the beginning, we promised the membership that the PBA representatives were committed to crafting a contract that reflected the needs of its members, and pledged that the merits of the proposal would be negotiated by its members," said Vilar.

"We are grateful that Governor Cuomo and his administration recognized our willingness to negotiate a fair and reasonable contact. It is gratifying to know that in less than six months from the date it began representing the women and men of the PBA of New York State, we were able to deliver a contract that previously eluded our members, and will provide security for their families and futures."

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 contract agreement include the following:

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.

Image courtesy of http://www.cksinfo.com