Thursday, April 5, 2012

Cuomo, Council 82's Lyman Reach Contract Agreement


Cuomo: "This is a Fair and Reasonable Contract...."

Governor Andrew Cuomo and Council 82 Executive Director James Lyman have announced a tentative contract agreement between the State and Council 82 Supervisors Unit.

The tentative contract includes zero percent wage increases for 2011-2013 and ensures protections against layoffs, and offers health benefits commensurate with other state bargaining units. 

The contract provides for a 2% general salary increase in both 2014 and 2015, 9 days of deficit reduction leave, and adjustments to the health insurance premium. 

"Shared sacrifice is needed during these difficult fiscal times and I am pleased that by working together we have been able to reach a tentative agreement with the members of Council 82’s Supervisors Unit," Governor Cuomo said. 

"This is a fair and reasonable contract that protects the jobs of the men and women that work to protect New Yorkers. I thank Executive Director Lyman and both negotiating teams for their hard work in helping reach this tentative agreement." 

"This is a good and fair contract for all involved for the state, the taxpayers and the hardworking men and women in the bargaining unit. These individuals keep New York safe and secure and this contract reflects the respect that they have earned. We praise the efforts and commitments of the Governor and both negotiating teams in reaching a deal," stated  James Lyman, Executive Director of Council 82.

The agreement follows the pattern of contracts negotiated over the past year and includes the following:

Zero percent wage increases for 2011-2013, a 2% increase in both 2014 and 2015

3% and 4% wage increases for 2009-2011; same pattern as other units. These increases were previously reserved for in the state financial plan.

A $1,000 retention bonus paid out $775 in the third year and $225 in the fourth year. 

Deficit Reduction Leave (DRL) totaling nine days, saving $2.3 million. The total deduction for the days comes from the retro pay for 2009-11.

Employees will be repaid the value of 4 DRL days in equal installments starting at the end of the contract term. 

Retroactive payments that are scheduled to be paid in one payment this fiscal year. 

A six percent increase for health insurance premiums, making the employee share 16% for individuals and 31% for family premiums. 

A health plan opt-out so officers can opt-out through a spouse/partner to a non-State health plan. 

All changes to health benefits, including premium shifts, will save $3.5 million over the contract period and $1 million annually after 2016. 

Members 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.

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