New laws aim to provide stronger protections and benefits for public sector workers in New York
Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a legislative package designed to enhance the rights of public sector workers in New York State. These new laws build upon existing protections and ensure that the state and local government continue to prioritize the well-being and fair treatment of all workers. The legislation comes as part of the state’s efforts to rebuild and modernize the public sector workforce, as outlined in the FY2024 Budget.
Ensuring Health Insurance Access for Spouses and Dependents
One of the key laws in the package, S.5495/A.6806, guarantees access to health insurance for un-remarried spouses and dependents of former state or political subdivision employees who retired with an accidental disability or a performance of duty disability pension. Previously, the New York State Health Insurance Plan only allowed this for retirees with at least ten years of service. This new law extends the coverage to spouses and dependents of retirees with less than ten years of service.
Equal Rights for Employees in Workforce Reductions
S.5487/A.6856 provides equal rights to employees outside of the competitive class in the case of a reduction in the workforce. Previously, employees in the competitive class had certain rights and protections that were not extended to other employees. This law ensures that all employees, regardless of their classification, have equal reduction and recall provisions in civil service law at all levels of state and local government.
Clarifying Information for Employee Organizations
S.6477/A.7157 clarifies the information that public sector employers are required to provide to employee organizations. This law eliminates any confusion regarding the current law’s reference to addresses and specifies that a union is entitled to the home address of an employee in its bargaining unit. This provision enables the union to contact the employee outside of the workplace, strengthening communication and organizational efforts.
Timely Resolution of Arbitrations
Legislation S.6491/A.6866 addresses the issue of delays in arbitrations between public employers and employees. It requires parties to make an application to modify or vacate an award within 90 days after the delivery of the award. This change aims to ensure a more timely resolution to arbitration matters, giving the unsuccessful party a clear deadline to decide whether to comply with the award or challenge it within the 90-day period.
Conclusion: The newly signed legislative package represents a significant step in strengthening the rights of public sector workers in New York State. These laws provide essential protections and benefits, including access to health insurance for spouses and dependents, equal rights for employees in workforce reductions, and clearer information for employee organizations. By prioritizing the well-being and fair treatment of workers, Governor Hochul and the state government are working towards creating a stronger and more equitable public sector workforce.
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