Be sure to check out the Fully Mobilized Divisions Honor Roll
12/19/2008
THE BUDGET
- GOVERNOR ASKS LEGISLATORS TO
GRANT HIM AUTHORITY TO RENEGE ON HIS EMPLOYEE CONTRACTS
From the Desk of Ken Brynien, PEF President
As many of you are already aware, the governor is seeking
contract concessions from the state public employee unions as a means to address
the state’s fiscal crisis such as, eliminating negotiated pay increases and
lagging our payroll, this on top of eliminating 3,108 positions of which more
than 500 will result in layoffs.
I want to restate without
equivocation to all PEF members, the employment security of our members is our
highest priority, and that we will not re-open our contract.
There are those who believe that if unions agree to the
concessions proposed in the Executive Budget that this will enhance the job
security of our members. Unfortunately the governor’s own proposals
show this to be false, as even with the concessions accounted for in the
Executive Budget it still contains significant job cuts and layoffs.
The governor has included budget language that if passed by
the legislature would provide him with the authority to unilaterally, based on a
fiscal emergency and without collective bargaining, eliminate the three percent
pay raise due in April and to lag our pay another week. Any acceptance of
these proposals or reopening of our contract has the potential of creating a
precedent where the state could declare a fiscal emergency and unilaterally take
negotiated raises and benefits away, even If the emergency was the result of the
state’s fiscal mismanagement.
It is interesting to note that subsequent to our contract and
following the governor’s declaration of a fiscal emergency in August, two
contracts have been negotiated that contain the same wage pattern as ours and
that public employees in New York City - a workforce of roughly the same size as
the state workforce - are not being asked for the concessions the governor is
demanding.
It is shameful that despite the many
budgetary options we have proposed (see "The Answers" at
www.pef.org)
to help address the state’s fiscal crisis, and in addition to the work force
reductions and layoffs, the governor continues to insist on the contractual
concessions from the state work force before requiring the state’s wealthiest to
bear their fair share of the state’s fiscal crisis.
In the next few days I will be working with leaders from the
other state public employee unions to establish unified opposition to these
proposals, and potentially a media campaign in opposition.
Your involvement in opposition
to these proposals is vital to our success. I strongly urge you to plan on
atending the January 7th Rally and immediately contact your legislators to
express your opposition to this illegal and unconstitutional proposal.
(Call your legislators toll free at 1-877-255-9417.)
I will continue to update you regarding the Executive Budget
proposals. The most recent information and activities you may take to
oppose these proposals can be found on our website.
- GOVERNOR’S WAGE AND BENEFIT
BUDGET PROPOSALS
- Establish a sliding scale for retiree health insurance premium contributions
for future state retirees
- Require state employees and retirees to contribute to
Medicare Part B premiums
- Eliminate the general salary increases scheduled on or
after April 1, 2009 provided for in all collective bargaining agreements,
interest arbitration awards, and for M/C employees
- Implement a Tier 5 pension benefit for newly hired
state and local government employees
- Implement an additional 5-day pay deferral for all state
employees
Every State employee , retiree,
and family member will be negatively impacted by one or more of these!
GET THE DETAILS HERE:
http://publications.budget.state.ny.us/eBudget0910/fy0910littlebook/StateWorkforce.html
- JOB CUTS AND OTHER AGENCY SPECIFIC BUDGET DETAILS
PEF has issued a special "budget" edition of our
COMMUNICATOR. Visit us here to read details about the Governor's budget proposal
-
http://www.thecommunicator.org/122008special/governorspeaks.htm
- MULTI UNION RALLY - JANUARY
7, 2009
Be Prepared - Get Ready!
It is critical that PEF members and retirees step up and tell
the Governor and the Legislators how we feel about these Executive budget
proposals!
Make sure you dress warm and join thousands of our union
brothers and sisters as we have our voices heard as the Governor delivers his
State of the State. OUR JOBS, OUR FUTURE AND OUR COMMUNITIES are at
STAKE!
HERE ARE THE DETAILS:
- Wednesday, January 7, 2009
- Albany Times Union Center 11:00: Pre - Rally Program begins
- 12 noon - 1pm: March to the Capitol via Beaver Street
- 1-2pm: Rally at the Capitol
- 2:30pm: Buses begin to Depart Albany
Buses will be leaving from all
PEF Regions. Buses will also be departing from a number of Albany and
surrounding State Office Buildings. Call your regional office for details! (A
list of Regional offices and phone numbers can be found here:
http://www.pef.org/regionaloffices.htm).
NYS EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT SYSTEM
(ERS) INFORMATION
http://www.osc.state.ny.us/retire/members_e-news/index.htm
NEW DISABILITY APPROVAL FAQs
if you have received notification of the approval of your
disability retirement, do you know what the next steps are to get your benefits?
If not, visit the ERS website and see our new Disability Retirement Approval
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page. These FAQs cover questions about what to
do after receiving your approval letter, dealing with your employer (if you are
still working), and how to receive your pension benefits. It’s an excellent
resource you will find very useful.
Link:
http://www.osc.state.ny.us/retire/members/disab_frequently_asked_questions.htm
GETTING CLOSE TO RETIREMENT?
Retroactive Payments and Your Benefit
Your retirement benefits are based on a number of factors, including your years
of credited service and your final average salary (FAS). If you retire and a
union contract is subsequently implemented, you may receive a retroactive
payment. If you do, ERS should review your benefit calculation to determine
whether or not the retroactive payment affects your FAS and, subsequently, your
benefit. Keep in mind that the salary used in your FAS calculation may be
limited. If your pension benefit changes, ERS will notify you and any increase
will be retroactive to your date of retirement. If your employer’s payroll is
processed through the New York State Payroll System, ERS will be notified
automatically of any retroactive payments.
If you worked for a non-State employer, you should check with
your former employer to confirm that they provided ERS with retroactive payment
information. If you need additional information, you can contact ERS at.
Link:
http://www.osc.state.ny.us/retire/contact_us/index.htm
BY THE WAY: Retirement Online
is a helpful tool that allows you to securely view your own Retirement System
information – such as your contribution balances or beneficiary designations –
on our website. If you haven’t already enrolled in this service, take a few
minutes to sign up now.
Retirement Online Signup:
http://www.osc.state.ny.us/retire/portal.htm
IRS ANNOUNCES 2009 MILEAGE
RATES
Beginning on Jan. 1, 2009, the standard mileage
rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:
- 55 cents per mile for business miles driven
The business mileage rate was 50.5 cents in the first half of
2008 and 58.5 cents in the second half. The medical and moving rate was 19 cents
in the first half and 27 cents in the second half.
The mileage rates for 2009 reflect generally higher
transportation costs compared to a year ago, but the rates also factor in the
recent reversal of rising gasoline prices. While gasoline is a significant
factor in the mileage rate, other fixed and variable costs, such as
depreciation, enter the calculation.
PSWP (Public Service Workshops
Program): Recently Announced Workshops - 12/12/08
For New York State Employees in the Professional, Scientific and Technical
Services (PS&T) Unit (MC employees may be permitted to attend workshops if space
is available.)
The recently scheduled PSWP workshops
below are grouped by region, and then listed in chronological order by class
date. Enroll now to prevent workshop cancellation due to low enrollment. To
reference full workshop details and to register go to: NYSLearn at
http://goer.state.ny.us/nyslearn
CAPITAL DISTRICT
- Accounting Refresher
This workshop is designed for professionals who work
in accounting, auditing and other finance-related titles. The workshop provides
an overview of the accounting equation and discusses the elements of the income
statement. Charges in equity and balance sheets; an explanation of accrual
accounting; accounting for deferrals; a synopsis of +/- accounts and the general
journal; and a review of depreciation methods will be addressed. Governmental
fund accounting and business type accrual accounting including applications of
government-wide financial statements will be also be reviewed.
Date/Time: 1/23/2009; 9 AM - 4 PM; Location: Sage College of
Albany, Albany, NY
Registration Deadline: 1/7/2009
- Professional Writing:
Mechanics
This workshop provides participants with a review of the mechanics of writing
including grammar, usage, and punctuation. The workshop includes a review of the
parts of speech, parts of a sentence phrases and clauses, and the use of
pronouns, verbs, and modifiers. Participants will also review the rules of
punctuation including apostrophes, semicolons, dashes, commas, and quotation
marks.
Date/Time: 1/23/2009; 9 AM - 4 PM; Location: Schenectady
County Community College, Schenectady, NY
Registration Deadline: 1/7/2009
- Network Basics
This workshop is designed for computer professionals
who need a basic introduction to the main components of a computer network.
Participants will learn about key terms and services, such as DNS, DHCP, and
Active Directory. Participants also will examine network infrastructure
components, such as routers, switches, and cabling. Specific troubleshooting
techniques will be demonstrated.
Date/Time: 1/28/2009; 9AM - 4PM; Location: University at
Albany, Albany, NY
Registration Deadline: 1/12/2009
- Professional Presentation
Skills
This workshop is designed for individuals who speak
at or moderate meetings, deliver presentation, or participate in panel
discussions. Participants will explore the guidelines for crafting and making
effective presentations, the importance and role of the speaker, and how to
manage nervousness associate with speaking in public. Topics include the
organization and development of a presentation, an analysis of voice and diction
skills, audience interaction, awareness of body language, effective listening,
use of visual aids, and the role of humor.
Date/Time: 2/10/2009; 9AM - 4PM; Location: Sage College of
Albany, Albany, NY
Registration Deadline: 1/23/2009
- Investigative Interviewing
This workshop examines techniques for interviewing
subjects for purposes of fact-finding and obtaining information about
compliance, fraud, and abuse. It is designed for individuals who testify
in administrative hearings or other proceedings. Topics include discussion
of legal parameters, strategies for handling reluctant and hostile interviewees,
and the importance of accurate field notes. The workshop focuses on interviewing
external witnesses involved in underlying cases. Scenarios such as
interviewing an office worker in a Medicaid Fraud investigation or the school
nurse in a child abuse case will be included.
Date/Time: 3/2/2009; 9AM - 4PM; Location: Albany Law School,
Albany, NY
Registration Deadline: 2/13/2009
WESTERN
- Professional Writing: Mechanics
This workshop provides participants with a review of the
mechanics of writing including grammar, usage, and punctuation. The workshop
includes a review of the parts of speech, parts of a sentence phrases and
clauses, and the use of pronouns, verbs, and modifiers. Participants will also
review the rules of punctuation including apostrophes, semicolons, dashes,
commas, and quotation marks.
Date/Time: 1/21/2009; 9 AM- 4 PM; Location: Canisius College,
Amherst, NY
Registration Deadline: 1/5/2009
12/4/2008
PEF EXPOSES THE REAL COST ASSOCIATED WITH
STATE’S ADDICTION TO CONSULTANTS
Albany –The New York State Public
Employees Federation (PEF) released new research showing the state can save as
much as $705 million annually by kicking its addiction to consultants. That’s
more than double the amount the governor is seeking through givebacks from state
employees.
PEF President Ken Brynien revealed at a press conference in Albany that state agencies spent $2.78 billion on consultants last year, which is $100 million more than the previous year.
“New York is clearly addicted to consultants and this addiction is costing taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars at a time when they can least afford it.” said Brynien.
“The state has a hiring freeze on state workers, yet it continues to hire more costly consultants to do work state employees can do for less."
“The state is expecting employees, many of whom live paycheck-to-paycheck to give up a hard earned 3 percent raise and other benefits to help close a multi-billion-dollar budget gap, while consultants continue to live high-on-the-hog at a much higher cost to taxpayers.” Brynien added.
The contract disclosure law, enacted in 2006, requires state agencies to itemize how much they spend on consultants, yet PEF’s research reveals agencies only itemized 17 percent of their consultant expenditures last year, resulting in the underreporting of $2.3 billion spent on consultants.
“Agencies are misleading the public,” said Brynien. “They only report employing 3,813 full-time-equivalent consultants this fiscal year, but the true number is six times higher, with an estimated 22,000 full-time-equivalent consultants on the payroll.”
The agencies with the highest itemized consultant expenditures are the state Department of Transportation (DOT) with $107 million, the state Department of Health (DOH) with $52 million, the state Office of General Services (OGS) with $44 million, and the State University of New York (SUNY) with $46 million. The true amount of consultant expenditures is significantly higher.
PEF is calling on the state to institute a consultant-reduction plan by freezing all state agency contracts not funded with capital project funds, require a cost-benefit analysis to determine if consultants or state employees should be hired and set savings targets for each agency for consultant spending which, all-told, could save the state $705 million over three years.
Review an in depth report on this issue as well as material used at a PEF press conference held on December 3 here:
“MARCH FOR MAIN STREET” SCHEDULED FOR JANUARY
7, 2009
Be Prepared - Get Ready!
Our “March for Main Street” is Just Around the Corner. Make sure you dress warm and join thousands of our union brothers and sisters as we have our voices heard as the Governor delivers his State of the State. JOBS AND COMMUNITIES are at STAKE!
HERE ARE THE DETAILS:
- Wednesday, January 7, 2009
- Albany Times Union Center 11:00: Rally – Program begins
- 12 noon - 1pm: March to the Capitol via Beaver Street
- 1-2pm: Rally at the Capitol
- 2:30pm: Buses begin to Depart Albany
Buses will be leaving from all PEF Regions. Buses will also be departing from a number of Albany and surrounding State Office Buildings. Call your regional office for details! (A list of Regional offices and phone numbers can be found here: http://www.pef.org/regionaloffices.htm).
H&S WORKSHOP – SEATS STILL AVAILABLE!
Under Article 18 of the PS&T Contract - The State of New York/ Public Employees
Federation (PEF) Statewide Health & Safety Committee is offering:
“How to Investigate and Solve IAQ Problems”
January 22 - 23, 2009
Helen Hayes Hospital, West Haverstraw, NY
Union leaders and agency managers are often confronted with concerns about indoor air quality and mold contamination in the work environment. The Committee recognizes the importance of providing trainings on these topics to management officials, union representatives, and building personnel. Understanding the fundamentals of indoor air quality and mold contamination and remediation can assist in the timely identification and resolution of these problems.
The programs are open to all Labor and Management Chairs of the Agency Level Health and Safety Committees as well as building managers, supervisors, and other building related personnel. Each agency Health & Safety Committee is invited to send up to three (3) representatives to the program. Selection of participants shall be done through a joint consultation between the agency and labor chairs of the committees.
To download the Registration form and Invitation, please visit the PEF web site at: http://www.pef.org/healthandsafety/iaq.htm
Your registration form must be received by the close of business day on December 22, 2008
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Thank you,
Kathy J. D'Arminio
PEF Chair Article 18 Joint Statewide Health and Safety Committee
http://www.pef.org/healthandsafety/index.htm
PONDERABLE QUOTE
“Two weeks ago, the CEOs of the Big 3 were tarred
and feathered before a Congressional committee who sneered at them in a way far
different than when the heads of the financial industry showed up two months
earlier. At that time, the politicians tripped over each other in their swoon
for Wall Street and its Ponzi schemers who had concocted Byzantine ways to bet
other people's money on unregulated credit default swaps, known in the common
vernacular as unicorns and fairies.
But the Detroit boys were from the
Midwest, the Rust (yuk!) Belt, where they made real things that consumers needed
and could touch and buy, and that continually recycled money into the economy
(shocking!), produced unions that created the middle class, and fixed my teeth
for free when I was ten.
For all of that, the auto heads had
to sit there in November and be ridiculed about how they traveled to D.C. Yes,
they flew on their corporate jets, just like the bankers and Wall Street thieves
did in October. But, hey, THAT was OK! They're the Masters of the Universe!
Nothing but the best chariots for Big Finance as they set about to loot our
nation's treasury.”
Michael Moore
11/20/2008
THE FISCAL CRISIS
- MARK YOUR CALENDARS - January 7, 2009!
The Wall Street party has ended. For years now the rich have gotten
significantly richer while the rest of us weren’t invited.
(Get the facts here
http://www.fiscalpolicy.org/FPI_NYFF_Testimony_WaysAndMeans_20081113.pdf)
Despite this reality and now that the party is over it is the working class and retirees being called upon to clean up the mess.
- NINE SUGGESTIONS FOR FAIRNESS IN
THE BUDGET RESPONSE!
1. Increase the income tax on wealthier New Yorkers; ranging from the
millionaire tax approved by the Assembly to the temporary surcharge enacted in
2003. This option will generate between $2 billion and $7 billion in revenue
depending on the income levels and rates.
2. Reduce consultant costs by instituting a freeze on all new consultant
contracts, requiring a budget waiver to enter into those contracts, and by
examining all current consultant contracts as to which can be terminated.
3. Enact the bigger better bottle bill which will generate $200 million in
additional revenue in a full fiscal year.
4. Collect taxes that are due – especially cigarette taxes on reservation
purchases by non-Indians –yield estimates range from $400 million to $1.6
billion a year.
5. Reform economic development programs to level the playing field among
businesses in NYS:
- Improve the effectiveness and accountability of Industrial Development
Agencies,
- Apply Brownfield Clean Up Program reforms to “grandfathered” projects, and
- Reform the Empire Zones program (Savings begin at $50 million/yr, rising to
$500 million after 10 years)
6. Improve the way Limited Liability Company’s annual fees are calculated and
close other corporate tax loopholes (DOB calculated $75 million/year in savings
in 2007).
7. Use the state’s tremendous purchasing power to see reduced prices from drug
manufacturers for prescription drugs for Medicaid, state employees, and other
state programs. This would generate approximately $100 million a year.
8. Use the Tax Stabilization Reserve Fund/Rainy Day Reserve Fund which has $1
billion and are intended to be used in fiscal emergencies.
9. Eliminate or severely restrict overtime by hiring full-time employees to
handle the overtime hours. In SFY 2007-08 the state spent $485.7 million on
overtime costs that are not contractually obligated and has spent $196.1 million
on such costs in the first five months of SFY 2008-09. This appears to be about
the same rate of spending on overtime as the last fiscal year.
- PEF MEMBERS FIGHT FOR A “BETTER
BUDGET”
Legislators attending this week’s special session were greeted by PEF members
and our partners in the “BETTER BUDGET” fight. We were there to say that we
aren’t going to stand idly by while policy makers require the poor and middle
classes to clean up this mess. Video highlights of the fight back are posted at
the website -
http://www.pef.org/special_postings/betterbudgetrally/betterbudgetrally.htm
TAXATION OF CERTIFICATION and
LICENSURE EXAM FEE (CLEFR) BENEFITS
The Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
has determined that reimbursements under the CLEFR Program do NOT qualify for
the exclusion from gross income that applies to benefits payable under
educational assistance programs.
Therefore, these reimbursements will be reported as taxable income.
GOER has provided OSC with information on all reimbursements employees received
through the CLEFR Program in calendar year 2008.
OSC will levy the taxes over one paycheck in the 2008 calendar year.
The exact pay date is November 26 for the Administrative Cycle and
December 4 for the Institutional Cycle.
In accordance with the Prescription Drug Formulary side letter negotiated in the
2007-2011 PS&T Contract, effective 1/1/09, United Healthcare (UHC), the insurer
for the Empire Plan Prescription Drug Program, will be permitted flexibility in
the administration of the Empire Plan Preferred Drug List.
This flexibility will result in the renaming of the Preferred Drug List
to the Flexible Formulary Drug List.
The purpose of the Empire Plan Flexible Formulary is to reduce unnecessary costs
to our membership and the employer without impacting clinically appropriate
medication options for members and their physicians. This will be accomplished
by:
·
Excluding
coverage for a small number of prescription drugs;
·
Placing
brand-name drugs on the Empire Plan Flexible Formulary Drug List that provide
the best overall healthcare value to the Plan; and
·
Applying the
highest copayment to non-preferred brand-name drugs that provide no clinical
advantage over generic or preferred brand-name drug alternatives.
We
have prepared a full briefing on the changes and what they mean to you and your
family. Please visit us at the following link to learn more:
http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
SAVE MORE MONEY USING NYS-Ride
The Internal Revenue System (IRS) has increased the 2009 pre-tax monthly
spending limit for transportation benefits effective January 1, 2009.
Employees who use public transportation can save even more by setting
aside up to $120 per month in pre-tax salary for their commuting expenses.
Current NYS-Ride participants with a commuter benefit election exceeding
the 2008 monthly pre-tax limits will automatically gain the enhanced benefit
without taking any further action.
However, NYS-Ride participants using the Commuter Card or with transit
passes set at the 2008 limits, will need to increase their election to take
advantage of the new 2009 limits.
If
you have any questions regarding the 2009 pre-tax spending limits or the
program, please call NYS-Ride at 1-866-428-7781 (TDD 1-866-353-8058) or
log on to
www.nysride.com.
PONDERABLE QUOTE
11/13/2008
URGENT!!!
Call you
legislators NOW to prevent OCFS closures
1 (877) 255-9417
The Governor has asked the
Legislature to act on Tuesday, November 18 to CLOSE:
- Adirondack Residential Center
- Great Valley Residential Center
- Cattaraugus Residential Center
- Pyramid Reception Center
- Rochester and Syracuse Group Homes
- Albany, Buffalo and Syracuse Evening Reporting Centers;
REDUCE beds and staffing
at:
- Allen Residential Center
- Tryon Boys Residential Center;
And REPEAL the 12 month notice law that allows for communities and employees to plan for closures.
Tell your local legislators, and Committee Chairs Senator Carl Kruger and Assemblyman William Scarborough to:
1. Oppose the repeal of
the 12 month notice law,
2. Keep youth facilities open until the Governor’s Task Force on Transforming
New York State’s Juvenile Justice System submits its recommendations,
3. Use the “Rainy Day Fund” to close this year’s budget gap, and
4. Increase income taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers
CALL TODAY - 1 (877) 255-9417
THE PRESS
CONFERENCE
Governor Paterson had a press
conference yesterday. He called upon the unions to reopen their contracts.
Specifically, he is seeking that we give up the 3% raise scheduled April, 2009,
agree to another 5 day pay lag and agree to concessions in health insurance.
PEF is committed to not re-open our contract - a position which was formalized by President Brynien in a memo published in AIM on October 10, 2008 (a reprint follows).
We have also provided the Governor with many cost cutting measures which would go a long way to resolving the budget crisis. FYI, this list is reproduced here.
THE FOLLOWING
IS REPRINTED from PEF AIM (Active Informed Member) Update 10.10.08
THE STATE'S FISCAL CRISIS AND
HOW IT AFFECTS PEF MEMBERS
From the desk of PEF President Kenneth Brynien
I would like to address the concerns of many members who have contacted my office for information regarding the state's fiscal crisis, what this may mean for you as a public employee, and your union's response.
As we are all aware, the financial, insurance and real estate sectors of New York's economy are facing very difficult times. This has translated to a significant reduction in tax revenue for the state and growing projected deficits for the remainder of this fiscal year and into the next.
Many have heard rumors of impending lay-offs, re-opening contracts, creation of a new retirement tier, merging of state agencies, etc. At this point in time these are just that, rumors. I want to emphatically state to all PEF members, the employment security of our members is our highest priority, we will not re-open our contract, or agree to any reduction in non-contractual benefits.
The governor has already acknowledged that the state workforce has so far borne the brunt of the cuts that have already been imposed, including a 10% across the board cut in spending for state operations (executive branch spending) as well as a no growth budget for state agencies for the next fiscal year starting April 2009.
However, even with the 10% cut in spending the continued loss in tax revenue has resulted in a total shortfall of nearly $1.2 billion this year and a projected shortfall of $8 billion for next year.
To address these shortfalls the governor has called for a legislative session on November 18th and will deliver the Executive budget to the legislature on December 16th, a full month earlier than required by the state's constitution. In two weeks the governor will be meeting with leaders of the unions representing the state workforce, presumably to inform us of his plans for addressing the shortfalls and to ask for additional input on potential solutions to the state's fiscal crisis. At this point in time the governor has not called for additional cuts to the workforce other than through attrition and a hard hiring freeze.
PEF, along with other unions, and community-based organizations are advocating an increase in the income tax for the wealthiest New Yorkers, closure of tax loopholes, improved tax collection procedures, reductions in State spending for consultants, implementation of the bigger better bottle bill, and increased federal assistance to the states particularly for Medicaid costs as alternatives to greater spending reductions.
These are some of the many options available to the governor that the state can pursue before resorting to layoffs or damaging cuts to public services, and I will be insisting that the governor explore these options before there are any more cuts to the state workforce.
There is no doubt that there will be many ill-conceived proposals that could negatively affect our members and the services we provide. We will fight to ensure that the fiscal crisis does not fall disproportionately on the state's workforce.
In addition to our direct advocacy to the governor on these issues we are working coalition with NYSUT, CSEA, AFSCME, SEIU, the state AFL-CIO and other unions to advocate for ways to reduce the deficit that are sensible, less damaging to the state's economy, and preserve the public services our members provide.
I will continue to keep you informed regarding the state's proposals to address the fiscal crisis and on our response.
FISCALLY AND SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE ALTERNATIVES - Options PEF has identified and delivered to the Governor which are available to close the budget gaps over the next several fiscal years:
As PEF has stated previously and the governor has agreed, the state workforce to date has borne the brunt of the state's budget cuts. The burden of the state's fiscal crisis must be shared.
The state must make every effort to avoid layoffs. Layoffs and other serious cuts in state services are counterproductive in a recession and according to the governor's own economic advisor Joseph Stiglitz, are more harmful to the state economy than a temporary income tax increase on wealthier New Yorkers. At the very least the state must close its budget gap with an equal share of revenue raisers and budget cuts.
1. Increase the income tax on wealthier New Yorkers; ranging from the millionaire tax approved by the Assembly to the temporary surcharge enacted in 2003. This option will generate between $2 billion and $7 billion in revenue depending on the income levels and rates.
2. Reduce consultant costs by instituting a freeze on all new consultant contracts, requiring a budget waiver to enter into those contracts, and by examining all current consultant contracts as to which can be terminated and which can be done by state employees at a lower cost. Savings: up to $750 million a year.
During the last hiring freeze state agencies found it easier to hire consultants to get work done than to hire state employees, even if it was less expensive to hire state employees. We have anecdotal evidence from our members that this is once again occurring, that the hiring freeze is creating a perverse incentive to hire contractors and consultants due to the freeze, especially as a means to expend federal funds. The Division of Budget needs to institute new restrictions on new consultant contracts and more aggressively review current consultant contracts for potential savings.
3. Enact the bigger better bottle bill which will generate $200 million in additional revenue in a full fiscal year.
4. Collect taxes that are due - especially cigarette taxes on reservation purchases by non-Indians - yield estimates range from $400 million to $1.6 billion a year.
5. Reform economic development programs to level the playing field among businesses in NYS:
- Improve the
effectiveness and accountability of Industrial Development Agencies,
- Apply Brownfield Clean Up Program reforms to "grandfathered" projects, and
- Reform the Empire Zones program (Savings begin at $50 million/yr, rising to
$500 million after 10 years)
6. Improve the way Limited Liability Company's annual fees are calculated and close other corporate tax loopholes (DOB calculated $75 million/year in savings in 2007).
7. Use the state's tremendous purchasing power to see reduced prices from drug manufacturers for prescription drugs forMedicaid, state employees, and other state programs. This would generate approximately $100 million a year.
8. Use the Tax Stabilization Reserve Fund and the Rainy Day Reserve Fund which together have $1 billion and are intended to be used in fiscal emergencies.
9. Eliminate or severely restrict overtime by hiring full-time employees to handle the overtime hours. In SFY 2007-08 the state spent $485.7 million on overtime costs that are not contractually obligated and has spent $196.1 million on such costs in the first five months of SFY 2008-09. This appears to be about the same rate of spending on overtime as the last fiscal year. If employees are hired to work this overtime the state would save up to $160 million a year.
These proposals have the potential of reducing the budget deficit by as much as $10 billion without severe cuts to programs and services. Legislative leaders should consider these options as they deliberate and develop plans for the 2009-2010 Executive Budget proposal.
JOIN A "RALLY FOR A FAIR
BUDGET"!
Tell our Legislators to Raise Revenues! Layoffs and Cuts to State Services are
Not an Option!
Tuesday
November 18, 2008
12 Noon
West Steps of the State Capitol
For Further Details Call:
PEF’s Mobilization Dept. — 1-800-342-4306 ext. 227
or
www.pef.org click on “The Answers”
Look for the PEF table for your PEF Gear!
PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD AT YOUR WORKPLACE!
- PSWP: Public Service Workshops Program: Recently Announced Workshops For New York State Employees in the Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (PS&T) Unit
The recently scheduled
PSWP workshops below are grouped by region, and then listed in chronological
order by class date. To reference full workshop details and to register go to:
NYS-Learn at
http://goer.state.ny.us/nyslearn
- Capital District
Program Evaluation for Practical Results
This two-day workshop is designed for professionals who manage, direct, oversee,
or analyze programs. Participants will learn how to effectively evaluate program
results and improve performance. Topics include: evaluation tools and
techniques; outcome monitoring; feasibility assessment; and other analytic
methods such as cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness analysis. Emphasis is placed
on evaluation tools to improve program performance and accountability to
accurately assess program results and outcomes.
Date/Time: 12/15/2008 and 12/17/2008; 9 AM - 4 PM; Location: University at
Albany, Albany, NY
Registration Deadline: 11/26/2008
Cascading Style
Sheets: Basics
This workshop focuses on the basic principles of creating Cascading Style Sheets
(CSS) to develop web page designs that provide a true separation of content from
presentation. Participants learn to create different types of style sheets to
control page elements such as fonts, lists, color backgrounds, and borders. In
addition, using CSS for layout is explored.
Date/Time: 1/5/2009; 9 AM - 4 PM; Location: MicroKnowledge, Latham, NY
Registration Deadline: 12/18/2008
Scripting and
Scripting Languages
This workshop provides a survey of scripting languages and the impact of
scripting on accessibility issues. After a general overview of how scripting
languages work, the most popular scripting languages are reviewed. This workshop
assumes that users have a basic familiarity with web and web application
development, and a basic understanding of relational database concepts.
Date/Time: 2/2/2009; 9AM - 4PM; Location: MicroKnowledge, Latham, NY
Registration Deadline: 1/15/2009
Derivative
Transactions
This workshop provides an overview of derivatives accounting and is designed for
professionals who work in accounting, auditing, and other finance-related
titles. A derivative is a financial transaction such as an interest rate swap
that has been structured from other transactions. This area often involves
complex transactions and the accounting is also complex. Information from
resources such as the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) and the New
York State Government Finance Officers' Association, Inc. (NYS GFOA) is
reviewed.
Date/Time: 2/2/2009; 9AM - 4PM; Location: University at Albany, Albany, NY
Registration Deadline: 1/15/2009
Problem Gambling:
Screening and Assessing Clients
This workshop provides a basic
understanding of the personality dynamics in assessing gambling addiction and
the importance of looking at the entire psychosocial environment when completing
the assessment. Participants review assessment models and instruments for
screening and assessing problem gambling. Additionally, the workshop addresses
the assessment of clients with other disorders.
Date/Time: 2/3/2009; 9AM - 4PM; Location: University at Albany, Albany, NY
Registration Deadline: 1/15/2009
- New York City
Co-Occurring Mental
Health and Substance Use Disorders
This workshop is designed for social
workers, health professionals, counselors, nurses, teachers, and other
professionals. Discussion will focus on the tools for assessing the needs of
drug and alcohol-dependent clients. Strategies will be provided for overcoming
obstacles for treatment of those with mental health and substance use issues.
Date/Time: 1/21/2009; 9AM - 4PM; Location: Long Island University-Brooklyn,
Brooklyn, NY
Registration Deadline: 1/5/2009
Medications in
Addictions Treatment: Understanding the Role
This workshop explores the new trends in the use of medications and addresses
the resistance by some providers who may perceive a conflict between appropriate
medication use and abstinence-only models of treatment. The psychosocial
interventions for the treatment of addiction dependence, how medication and
psychosocial interventions impact abstinence, and patient readiness for change,
are also discussed.
Date/Time: 2/11/2009; 9AM - 4PM; Location: Long Island University-Brooklyn,
Brooklyn, NY
Registration Deadline: 1/26/2009
Psychotropic
Medications Update
This workshop for health care professionals explores diagnoses and treatments
requiring the use of psychotropic medications. Therapeutic dosages and
administration of these medications will be described, as well as the potential
for their abuse in clinical and non-clinical settings. Also to be discussed are
possible drug interactions.
Date/Time: 2/25/2009; 9AM - 4PM; Location: Long Island University-Brooklyn,
Brooklyn, NY
Registration Deadline: 2/9/2009
Public Sector
Budget Development
This workshop provides an overview of analytical techniques and tools to
consider when developing a public sector budget, which include cost benefit
analysis, revenue forecasting, and outcome-oriented budgeting techniques.
Date/Time: 2/26/2009; 9AM - 4PM; Location: Pace University, New York, NY
Registration Deadline: 2/10/2009
Questions can be be
sent to
Kimberly Loccisano
PEF Education Department
Phone #- 1-800-342-4306 ext. 240
e-mail -
kloccisano@pef.org
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can
always depend on the support of Paul".
George Bernard Shaw
10/29/2008
THE FISCAL CRISIS
- YOU CAN HELP IDENTIFY WASTE IN THE STATE BUDGET - JOIN IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CONTRACTING OUT!
As you are no doubt well aware, New York State is once again faced with the prospect of declining tax revenues and increasing budget deficits ( http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=734031).
In an effort to address the current and anticipated budget deficits, Governor Patterson is requiring all agencies to cut their budgets. In order to ensure that the state work force does not bear the brunt of future reductions, we need to help the Governor and our state agencies to identify areas that may yield savings.
State expenditures for consultant contracts have increased from $2.26 billion in SFY 2003-04 to $2.78 billion in SFY 2007-08. The NYS Comptroller, KPMG, and PEF have done studies that show that consultants cost between 50% and 75% more than State employees who could do most of their work. The State needs to institute restrictions on new consultant contracts and more aggressively review current consultant contracts for potential savings.
We need our members’ assistance in identifying and reporting situations in which the budget reductions and/or hiring freeze results in a continued or increased reliance on costly consultants. Additionally, we need our members to identify any current contracting out situations in which the services provided could be done by a state employee at a lower cost.
Below is a list of information that will be useful in following up member tips. We understand that PS&T members may not have access to all of the requested information. For example, contract numbers may not be readily available. Therefore, it is important to understand that all of the information requested below is not required; at the very least the name of the contractor, the number of contract employees, the location where they work and the titles of the state employees that do this type of work are necessary for PEF to develop a good case.
Name of contractor
State agency hiring the contractor
Office or location of contractor
Service provided by contractor
Name(s) of contract employees
Do State employees do this kind of work?
What are the comparable titles?
Known relationships between contractor and politicians or agency policymakers.
Contractor mistakes
Contract number
Email address or phone number so PEF staff may get clarification of the issue.
Please submit this information to Privatization@pef.org
- AUSTERITY BUDGETS
Recently OMRDD issued a memo explaining a variety of cost saving measures. One such budget savings measure is that OMRDD will no longer provide muffins and pastries for meetings. If your agency has issued a memo with this level of budget savings detail, please forward a copy to:
e-HEALTHbeat
EMPIRE PLAN CHANGES COMING 1/1/09 For the complete story on each of the following topics visit us here www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
- SERVICES RECEIVED AT NON-NETWORK HOSPITALS AND FACILIITIES
When you use a non-network hospital, skilled nursing facility or hospice care facility, you are responsible for:
- 10 percent of the billed charges for inpatient services up to the coinsurance maximum;
- 10 percent of the billed charges or a $75 copayment for outpatient hospital services, whichever is greater, up to the coinsurance maximum.
- The annual coinsurance maximum for covered inpatient/outpatient services received at a non-network hospital and covered inpatient services received at a non-network skilled nursing facility or hospice care facility is $1,500 for the enrollee, $1,500 for the enrolled spouse/domestic partner, and $1,500 for all dependent children combined.
- Once the employee, spouse or domestic partner, or all dependent children combined have incurred $500 in coinsurance expenses, a claim may be submitted to United HealthCare for reimbursement of up to $1,000 under the Basic Medical portion of the Plan. Effective 1/1/09, reimbursement will decrease from $1,000 to $500.
In accordance with Timothy’s Law, this change also applies to covered inpatient mental health services received at a non-network facility.
- VISION PLAN IMPROVEMENTS ON THE WAY www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
Beginning January 1st, PEF-represented employees will see some significant improvements to the vision plan. These improvements were negotiated in the 2007-2011 PS&T contract. We took one step forward when the 90-day purchase period for dress eyewear was implemented on July 1, 2008. Prior to this change, members had to purchase their dress eyewear on the same date as their vision exam. This requirement made it difficult for members to do any comparison shopping before actually purchasing their eyeglasses. While the 90-day purchase period did not initially apply to occupational eyeglasses, the state has agreed to extend the 90-day purchase period to include occupational eyeglasses effective January 1, 2009. Now, we’re going to add to this first step by making some significant improvements to the level of benefits. The allowance for eyeglass frames is increasing from $100 to $130. This will provide members with more “paid-in-full” frames from which to choose.
REMINDER - USE THE FLEX SPENDING ACCOUNT TO SAVE $$$ www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
You have until midnight on November 14 to enroll in the Flex Spending Account. The Flex Spending Account (FSA) is a program PEF and the state negotiated to help members save money on their taxes. The FSA has two benefits, the Health Care Spending Account (HCSAccount) and the Dependent Care Advantage Account (DCAAccount)--that help you pay for health care or dependent care with pre-tax dollars. Even if you enrolled last year you must enroll again this year.
PUBLIC SERVICE WORKSHOP PROGRAM (PSWP)*
For complete workshop and registration information visit NYS-Learn, managed by the Governor's Office of Employee Relations-- http://goer.state.ny.us/nyslearn/
If employees are unsure if they have been set up to register for workshops using GOER's NYS-Learn, they should check with their Agency PSWP Liaison. The list of liaisons can be viewed at http://goer.state.ny.us/train/pswp/liaisons.html
- CAPITAL DISTRICT
Investigative Interviewing
This workshop examines techniques for interviewing subjects for purposes of fact-finding and obtaining information about compliance, fraud, and abuse. It is designed for individuals who testify in administrative hearings or other proceedings. Topics include discussion of legal parameters, strategies for handling reluctant and hostile interviewees, and the importance of accurate field notes.
Date/Time: 2/9/2009; 9 AM – 4 PM; Location: Albany Law School, Albany, NY
Negotiation Skills for Attorneys
This workshop addresses negotiation strategies, styles and tactics. Active listening and communication skills will be discussed and demonstrated. Participants will have opportunities for skill practice. Upon successful completion of this workshop, three (3) Continuing Legal Education Credits in Professional Practice and three (3) Continuing Legal Education Credits in Skills will be awarded.
Date/Time: 2/25/2009; 9AM – 4PM; Location: Albany Law School, Albany, NY
Copyright and Fair Use
This workshop will first provide a general overview of U.S. copyright law: the nature of copyright, what kinds of works are protected, what are the rights of a copyright owner, and what conduct will be considered infringing. It will then describe and explore the U.S. concept of "fair use" of copyrighted materials, the kinds of uses that, while apparently infringing, will nevertheless be protected. We will examine the development of the fair use doctrine and the way in which it has been applied in a variety of contexts.
Date/Time: 2/26/2009; 9AM – 4PM; Location: Albany Law School, Albany, NY
- CENTRAL NYS
Technical Writing for Engineers
This two-day workshop assists engineers and technical professionals in producing written reports, memos, letters and other texts. Topics include how to organize written documents for readability, how to design effective formats for presenting information, and how to improve language usage and mechanics. The workshop also focuses on how purpose and audience affect both the content and the format of the text. Upon completion of this workshop, 1.2 Continuing Education Units (12 PDHs) will be awarded.
Dates/Time: 1/12/2009 and 1/13/2009; 9AM – 4PM; Location: Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY
Conflict Resolution
In this interactive workshop, participants have an opportunity to improve their skills in dealing with and managing conflict. The workshop provides practical tools and techniques for conflict management and dispute resolution. Topics include conflict theory, to individual styles for resolving conflict, differentiating between positions and interests, and determining how differences impact communication. The focus is upon making the participants more effective problem solvers.
Date/Time: 2/2/2009; 9AM – 4PM; Location: Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY
* PSWP WORKSHOPS
Since 1983, PSWP has developed and delivered workshops tailored to meet the diverse training and professional development needs of New York State's 59,000 employees in the Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (PS&T) Unit and the workforce development goals of NYS agencies. Workshops are developed and delivered by an extensive network of colleges, universities, and professional associations.
PSWP is funded through Article 15 of the negotiated Agreement between the State of New York and the Public Employees Federation (PEF). The program is overseen by the NYS/PEF Professional Development Committee (PDC) and is administered by the Professional Development Program (PDP) at Rockefeller College.
PLEASE POST
10/6/2008
CONTRACT RESOURCE CENTER
FROM: Ken Brynien, President
Bob Carrothers, Director of Contract Administration
Many times our members have questions about the contract, and although the information might be contained in their contract book, they are unable to easily access the answers they need. One of the key features of the Contract Resource Center will be a subject matter index with more than 1,500 entries, each of which is linked to the relevant section of the 2007-2011 PEF Contract. (The printed version of the new contract will contain a similar index).
The website will also be used to preserve key documents in PEF’s history. Now members can directly access any PEF Contract or any salary schedule that PEF negotiated since 1979. From the Contract Resource Center homepage, you will find a series of links to common subject areas. From Compensation and Travel, to Grievances and Workers’ Compensation, we have organized information by subject with the hope that people can quickly find answers to specific questions they might have.
The website represents an effort to categorize information from a wide variety of sources, including various publications prepared by New York State. While the website covers a range of subjects, it is far from complete. In fact, the website will never really be complete as it will serve as the platform for organizing new information and resources as they become available. For example, when a new payroll bulletin is released, it will be linked to the appropriate section in the Compensation page of the CRC.
Finally, each section of the CRC contains a link for members to ask questions directly to the CRC. There will still be cases in which the inquiry has to be referred to the appropriate Field Representative, but through this link we hope to provide quick replies to general inquiries. In addition, we will use these questions to help build a list of Frequently Asked Questions for each subject area as they develop.
The website will continue to be a work in progress. Any comments or suggestions can be addressed to ContractResourceCenter@pef.org . To access the CRC, click the new button on the left menu bar of the PEF Home Page www.PEF.org.
8/15/2008
PEF hails Gov. Paterson for signing bill restricting nurse overtime
ALBANY - Leaders of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) today commended Gov. David Paterson for signing legislation that will finally set limits on mandatory overtime for nurses.
"We salute the governor for delivering on his promise to sign this bill which offers the first real hope for alleviating the shortage of nurses in our hospitals and other health care institutions throughout New York state," said PEF President Kenneth Brynien.
"By putting realistic restraints on employers to force nurses to work double or even triple shifts, this law will relieve the terrible strain on nurses and their families and it will ensure patients have the quality of care they need," Brynien added. "We strongly believe this will open the door for many nurses who left their profession feeling burned-out and exhausted to return with fresh enthusiasm and vigor for their chosen vocation."
New York now joins the ranks of other enlightened states that have recognized the level of care improves when the nurses and other caregivers are not forced to work long hours beyond their regular workdays.
Brynien also praised New York Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and former Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno who brought the bill successfully through the Legislature this spring.
"Special accolades go to state Sen. Thomas Morahan and Assembly Member Aileen Gunther who sponsored this bill and worked for years to get it enacted," Brynien said. "Their loyalty and determination to bring this issue to a successful conclusion kept hope alive in the hearts of thousands of nurses in PEF and many others throughout the state."
PEF is the state's second-largest state-employee union, representing approximately 8,000 nurses throughout New York state.
SAFE PATIENT
HANDLING CONFERENCE
We are happy to announce that the State of New York/PEF Statewide Health and
Safety Committee has approved funding to provide support for up to 200 eligible
management and labor representatives to attend the Safe Patient Handling
Conference.
The conference is being sponsored by NYS Department of Labor and the Zero Lift Task Force and will be held in Niagara Falls, New York on October 1-2, 2008. The aim of this conference is to increase labor and management knowledge and collaboration in preventing of back injuries, patient injury and related workers' compensation costs due to patient lifting.
For all of the details and the registration forms, please visit your PEF H&S Web presence at:
http://www.pef.org/healthandsafety/SPHconference.htm
Please NOTE that this is very time sensitive and needs your immediate attention.
As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via e-mail at kdarminio@pef.org or via telephone at 518-257-6983.
Thank
you,
Kathy J. D'Arminio
PEF Chair Article 18 Joint Statewide Health and Safety Committee
http://www.pef.org/healthandsafety/index.htm
Office
- 800-342-4306 ext. 252
Cell - 518-257-6983
e-HealthBeat
Empire Plan Disease Management Program Update
http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
The Empire Plan offers a number of disease management (DM) programs for individuals with a chronic medical and/or mental health condition. DM programs are available for individuals with: asthma, cardiovascular/coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depression, diabetes and sleep apnea. All of the DM programs use nationally-recognized clinical practice guidelines and recommendations. Participation is voluntary, free of charge to the participant, and confidential. Three new DM programs began on July 1, 2008.
DELEGATES
The 2008 Convention
Workshop Pre-Registration form is available on the Convention Website. It can
be completed and submitted via the web as we continue to try to go green.
https://www.nyspef.com/logon.aspx
If a delegate cannot access the web version they can contact Linda Giglio at 1-800-342-4306, ext. 328.
USEFUL
WEBSITES - SHOP STEWARDS TAKE NOTE!
CONTRACT NYS/PEF 2007/2011
Executive Summary
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/files/contactsummary200711.pdf
Salary
Schedules
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/contract07-10/2007-2011_salary_schedules.pdf
Full
Text
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/contract07-10/index.htm
Educational Offerings Inc. Reimbursements
http://www.goer.state.ny.us/train/pst/tuition/index.html
VRWS
Guidelines
http://www.goer.state.ny.us/benefits/vrwsguidelines92000.html
Pre-Tax
Transportation Programs:
www.nysride.com
Flexspend (Health Care Spending Account and Dependent Care Advantage Account):
http://flexspend.state.ny.us/
Mileage
Reimbursement Rates
http://www.osc.state.ny.us/agencies/travel/mileage.htm
Over 40
Comp Time Info
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/comptime/index.htm
NYS CIVIL SERVICE
Exam Fee Reimbursement Info and Application
http://www.pefmembershipbenefits.com/pro/fee.html
Attendance and Leave Manual
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/attend_leave_manual/
Information On Civil Service Titles
http://careermobilityoffice.cs.state.ny.us/cmo/rguide/titlesrch.cfm
Title
and Salary Plan
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/cc/tsplan.cfm
State
Personnel Management Manual (SPMM)
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/ssd/Manuals/SPMM/index.cfm
Special
Salary Treatments (e.g., Geographic, Shift Differentials)
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/cc/sstse.cfm
Traineeships
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/cc/traineeships.cfm
Calendar of Legal Holidays
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/attendance_leave/2008_legal_holidays.cfm
Sign up
for State Jobs Exam Announcements ? Receive Via E mail
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/announ/emaillist.cfm
MISC.
NYS THRUWAY - Toll and Distance Calculator
http://www.nysthruway.gov/tolls/calc/index.html
Hotels
Accepting State Rates
http://hotelsatperdiem.com/
Link to
State Agency Websites
http://www.nysegov.com/citguide.cfm?displaymode=normal&fontsize=100&contrast=lod&superCat=102&cat=449&content=main
Retirement System
http://www.osc.state.ny.us/retire/
Deferred Compensation Home Page
https://www.nrsservicecenter.com/iApp/ret/content/landing.do?Role=None&Site=nysdcp
OFT
Telephone Directory
https://www6.oft.state.ny.us/telecom/phones/indsearch.jsp
Pre-retirement Planning
http://www.goer.state.ny.us/train/onlinelearning/PR/intro.html
New
York Codes, Rules and Regulations (NYCRR)
http://government.westlaw.com/linkedslice/default.asp?SP=nycrr-1000
PEF
PEF Membership Application
http://www.pefmembershipbenefits.org/join.html
PEF
Membership Benefits
http://www.pefmembershipbenefits.org/
Exam
Fee Reimbursement Info and Application
http://www.pefmembershipbenefits.com/pro/fee.html
Signing
up for PEF e mails is easy. Visit us here
http://www.unionvoice.org/pef/home.html
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"The man who is brutally honest enjoys the
brutality as much as the honesty. Possibly more."
Richard Needham
7/11/2008
- Upcoming Retroactive Payments
Pursuant to
Chapter 114 of the Laws of 2008 which implements the new 2007-2011 Agreement
between the State of New York and the Public Employees Federation (PEF) and
provides for retroactive increases to Overtime Meal, Hazardous Duty Pay, Standby
Pay and Intermittent Inconvenience Pay payments effective April 1, 2007 for
eligible employees. These payments will occur in paychecks dated 7/17/08
(Institution) and 7/23/08 (Administration)
-
Hazardous Duty Pay Increase
The contract provides for an increase in the Hazardous Duty differential to $.75
per hour and Hazard Duty OT to $1.13 per hour effective 3/29/07 (Institution) or
4/5/07 (Administration).
-
Overtime Meal Allowance Increase
The contract provides for an increase to the Overtime Meal Allowance to $6.00
effective 3/29/07 (Institution) or 4/5/07 (Administration).
-
Standby Pay Increase
The contract provides for an increase to Standby Pay to 25% of daily rate of
compensation effective 3/29/07 (Institution) or 4/5/07 (Administration).
-
Intermittent Inconvenience Pay
The contract provides for increases to Intermittent Inconvenience Pay to $2.21
per shift and Intermittent Inconvenience Pay OT to $.43 per hour effective
3/29/07 (Institution) or 4/5/07 (Administration).
For more information - http://www.pef.org/pst2007/osc/pb826.htm
- Mileage Reimbursement Rate Increase Scheduled
The IRS has
increased the mileage reimbursement rate to 58.5 cents per mile effective July
1, 2008. The PEF contractual reimbursement rate mirrors the federal rate.
- NYS-RIDE
One way the new PS&T contract can help keep a few extra dollars in your pocket
is if you take advantage of the NYS-Ride program. Under the 2007-2011 agreement,
the program allows employees to pay their mass transit commuting expenses using
pre-tax dollars through a payroll deduction program.
In the 2003-2007contract the pilot program was available to 35,000 state employees who were working in one of the five boroughs of New York City.
In an effort to support a greener New York and help members save up to 40 percent on the cost of monthly transportation fares, the program will be expanded statewide to employees in eligible negotiating units. Participants in the pilot program will continue to be eligible to participate regardless of their negotiating unit.
The enrollment process is easy and can be done online at www.nysride.com or by calling a toll-free number at (866) 428-7781, where you can also get more information.
ACTION ALERTS
Here are two important bills heading to the Governor's desk. Please take a
couple of minutes to communicate your support of both measures!
- Health Insurance in Retirement
Public employee retirees have given years of service to the state and local
governments with a promise of security in their health insurance.
Unfortunately, when budgetary pressures mount, it becomes all too easy to target
retiree benefits. That is why the Governor should sign S6457A. This bill would
create a task force on public retiree health insurance protection, and establish
a temporary moratorium on unilateral reductions in benefits.
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/healthcareprotection_bill_08
- Geographic Reassignment Limitations
PEF's
geographic reassignment bill, S6652, has passed both houses of the legislature.
It provides reasonable safeguards in situations where the State seeks to
reassign civil service employees to a different geographic location from their
normal work site.
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/geographicreassignment_bill_08
AGENCY
SPENDING REDUCTIONS PLANS POSTED
See where your employer proposes to save money -
http://www.pef.org/special_postings/agencyspendingreductionplan2008.pdf
ATTENTION
2008 PEF CONVENTION DELEGATES FROM REGIONS 9, 10, 11 & 12!
The
deadline
to make airline reservations is
July 20, 2008.
If you have not made your reservations, please call PEF Travel at (800) 767-1840
as soon as possible.
PONDERABLE
QUOTE
"A consultant is someone who takes the watch
off your wrist and tells you the time."
Anon.
6/20/2008
DETAILED
PAYMENT INFORMATION
The Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) has issued the payroll bulletins
necessary to implement the raises and make retroactive payments required by the
2007-2011 Contract. Most of the adjustments (including base salary) will
be made in checks dated July 3 (institution) or July 9 (administrative).
Copies of the payroll bulletins are posted on the PEF Website at:
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/contactindex.htm
DEFERRED
COMPENSATION DEDUCTIONS
The Deferred Compensation Plan has issued a memo (we've posted it at our website
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/contactindex.htm)
concerning how enrollees can modify their election in anticipation of the
payment of retroactive contract monies. As the memo details, employees on the
Administrative payroll have until June 25 to submit any changes. For those on
the institution payroll, because the payroll for the July 3 payments have
already been processed, the time period for making changes in the deferral rate
has already was passed; deductions taken for deferred compensation in the July 3
paycheck will be based on the election currently in place. However, we
have been advised that enrollees who would have wanted to modify their deferral
can change their deferral rate for the July 17 institutional payroll in an
attempt to approximate the amount they would have had deferred from the lump sum
paycheck. Those changes would have to be received at the HELPLINE no later
than July 3. (The same action can also be taken at any point during the
remainder of the calendar year). The staff at the Deferred Compensation Plan are
aware of this problem and have offered to assist enrollees however they can.
PASSAGE
of S.6342/1898B BANNING MANDATORY OT for NURSES
From the Desk of Ken Brynien, PEF President
I am pleased to inform you that late yesterday afternoon Governor Paterson,
Assembly Speaker Silver, and Senate Majority Leader Bruno announced a three-way
agreement on our bill to end mandatory overtime for nurses in New York State.
The agreement and imminent passage of the bill represents the
culmination of nearly a decade of effort by PEF and our coalition partners SEIU,
CWA, AFT, NYSUT, NYSNA, and CSEA. I would like to thank all of you who
participated in our efforts over the years seeking passage of the bill, as well
as the bill sponsors Senator Tom Morahan and Assembly Member Aileen Gunther.
I especially want to thank our Legislative Director Brian Curran for his hard
work and effort over the last several weeks to keep the bill on track and in the
forefront of issues the legislature and governor were seeking to address.
Below is a brief summary of the bill and changes agreed to between the governor
and the legislature.
- Amends the Labor Law to prohibit the practice of requiring mandatory overtime
for nurses (RNs and LPNs).
- Prohibits health care employers from mandating that a nurse work more than
their regular work schedule.
- Exceptions are allowed for emergencies and health care disasters.
- Applies to hospitals, nursing homes, and government- operated facilities that
provide health care that are licensed under the Correction law, Mental Hygiene
Law or Education Law, including facilities run by State and local government.
This would include correctional facilities, OMH psychiatric centers, OMRDD
facilities, OASAS facilities, as well as most other health care facilities.
- Does not prohibit a nurse from voluntarily working overtime if he or she
feels professionally able to do so.
- Amends the Education Law to say that a nurse who refuses to work mandated
overtime shall not be charged with patient abandonment if the nurse has given
reasonable notice to his or her supervisor.
- Takes effect on July 1, 2009
Again, thank you for your efforts in achieving passage of this important piece
of legislation.
NYS-RIDE
PROGRAM
The NYS-Ride Program allows employees to pay for their mass transit commuting
expenses using pre-tax dollars via a payroll deduction program. During the
2003-2007 Agreement, this program was a pilot limited to employees working in
New York City. The new contract required that it be expanded to all employees.
The State has started distributing information about the program in anticipation
of the July 2 start of enrollment. Additional information can be found on
the PEF Website at
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/nysride_goes_statewide.htm
TUITION
REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAMS: GUIDELINES AND APPLICATION FORMS NOW AVAILABLE!
Click here
http://www.goer.state.ny.us/train/pst/tuition/
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"Nothing is really lost. It's just where it doesn't belong."
Suzanne Mueller
6/6/2008
PEF praises governor’s effort to save taxpayer dollars
Albany - The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) today
applauded Gov. David Paterson’s executive order requiring that contracts
between state agencies and private consultants be justified by savings to
the taxpayers, and open to full public scrutiny.
In recent years, bipartisan reports by separate comptrollers and a study by
the Fiscal Policy Institute (FPI) determined millions of tax dollars were
wasted annually through the use of expensive private consultants when, in
most cases, public employees could do the same work for less.
“This is a great day for New York state taxpayers and it’s public servants,”
said PEF President Ken Brynien. “It ensures the taxpayer gets the best
value, and it’s an acknowledgement of the efficiency of public employees.”
“The effective implementation of this executive order could result in
hundreds of millions of dollars in savings for taxpayers,” added FPI
Executive Director Frank Mauro.
In addition to thanking Gov. Paterson, Brynien also acknowledged the work of
state Sen. Joseph Robach, and Assembly Member Donna Lupardo, who spearheaded
a legislative effort related to the order by sponsoring legislation adopted
in 2006 requiring the cost of state contracts with private consultants be
fully disclosed.
President Brynien also recognized the important advocacy of state Assembly
Member Susan John, and Sen. Vincent Leibell, who sponsored legislation
calling for cost-benefit analysis of consultant contracts. “The John/Leibell
bill was the stimulus that helped to initiate the discussions leading to
this executive order,” Brynien said.
Republican former state Comptroller Ned Regan and Democratic former state
Comptroller H. Carl McCall were among the first to alert the public to the
high cost and inefficiency of using private consultants at the New York
State Department of Transportation. State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli has
also been supportive of PEF’s efforts to reduce the use of unnecessary
consultants in state agencies. Follow up research done by the FPI showed
that similarly wasteful contracts were undertaken for many different types
of consultant work across all state agencies.
“The governor’s executive order is a major first step toward cutting a
significant amount of waste in state spending,” Brynien added.
PEF is the state’s second-largest state-employee union, representing 58,000
professional, scientific and technical employees.
Note: The Governor's office has also issued a press release on this subject
which is being posted at
http://www.state.ny.us/governor/press/index.html
6/3/2008
CONTRACT '07 - '11
UPDATE
- PEF PAYBILL
The Governor has introduced our paybill into the state legislature. We
anticipate that the legislature will take up the matter later this week or early
next. Following the bill's passage the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC)
will issue payroll bulletins which include pay date information. Keep an eye on
our website for developing information.
- CONTRACT IMPLEMENTATION UPDATE
PEF Contract Administration has issued an update on the implementation
process. It can be read here:
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/civilservice/implementationprogress.htm
e-HEALTHbeat
CSC
Recommends Shingles Vaccine
www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
People age 60 and older should be vaccinated against shingles, or herpes zoster,
a condition often marked by debilitating chronic pain, the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended recently. CDC recommends a single dose
of the zoster vaccine, Zostavax, for adults 60 years of age and older even if
they have had a prior episode of shingles. The good news is effective 7/1/08,
Empire Plan enrollees will be able to get the shingles vaccine at age 55.
RALLY - Join the Nurses Rally to
create a better health care system in NY!
PEF hopes to push
two bills through the Legislature this year - the 'stop mandatory overtime' bill
and another to create safe staffing levels in health care facilities. PEF
leaders are asking nurses and other PEF members to support a rally to persuade
our lawmakers to pass these bills and create a better health care system in New
York, as other states have done.
The rally will be held at the State Capital on Tuesday, June 10 and will start at 11:15 a.m. It will include PEF, and other union members from the New York State United Teachers, the Communication Workers of America, and the Service Employees International Union 1199.
http://www.thecommunicator.org/pradcampaigns/nurserally08.htm
PROTECT PUBLIC EMPLOYEE RETIREE
HEALTH CARE
If you haven't already please contact your State Senator and Assemblymember and
ask them to support the retiree health protection study and the associated
moratorium. Contacting them has never been so easy. Click here and follow the
simple instructions. A faxed letter will be sent by PEF on your behalf.
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/ProtectPublicEmployeeRetireeHealthCare
Background - Public employee retirees have given years of service to the public with a promise of security in their health insurance. Unfortunately, when budgetary pressures mount, it becomes all too easy to target retiree benefits. That is why the legislature should pass S6457A/A9393A. This bill would create a task force on public retiree health insurance protection, and establish a temporary moratorium on unilateral reductions in benefits. The task force, which would include a variety of experts and interested parties appointed by the Governor and the Legislature, will be charged with studying cost-effective strategies for protecting adequate and affordable health insurance coverage for retired public employees and their dependents. In conjunction with the task force, a moratorium would also be in effect, prohibiting public employers from diminishing retiree health benefits.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS PROGRAM
(800) 342-4306 ext. 243
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
- Disney's Mary Poppins - New Amsterdam Theatre, New York City
Membership
Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for the July 10,
2008, 8:00pm show at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City (214 West 42nd
Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating), regular price is
$111.25. Ticket supplies are very limited. Orders will be filled on a first come
first serve basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or by calling 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
- Amusement Park Discounts
Membership
Benefits is selling discount amusement park tickets for the following parks:
Atlantis Marine World, Canada?s Wonderland, Cedar Point, Darien Lake, Dorney
Park, Dutch Wonderland, The Great Escape, Geauga Lake and Wildwater Kingdom,
Hershey Park, Hurricane Harbor, Idlewild and Soak Zone, Jiminy Peak Mountain
Adventure Park, Kennywood, MarineLand, Martin's Fantasy Island, Mountain Creek,
Seabreeze, Sandcastle, Great Adventure, Six Flags New England, Soak City, Splash
Zone, Splish Splash, Splash Down Beach, The Big E Fair, The Fun Spot, Water
Safari, Water Slide World, Zoom Flume, Sesame Place, Adventure Island, Water
Country USA and Busch Gardens. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a
Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or by calling 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
- Golf-A-Round
2 for 1 Greens Fees. Golf-A-Round is accepted at over 109 golf courses in the
Capital District. Books costs $26.25 (regularly $36.00) for PEF Members. Orders
can be placed on our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or by calling our office at 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
- Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium
Save on Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium admission. To purchase and print your
tickets, click on the Zoo or Aquarium link amusement parks at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.org
or go to
https://tickets.wcs.org
and enter this exclusive 'Store Name': PEFMBP.
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"Like a union
worker, it went right to work."
Phoenix Mission co-scientist Ray Arvidson.
5/24/2008
CONTRACT '07 - '11
-RAISES
We are
pleased to report that the UUP paybill has just been released by the Governor's
Counsel's office. UUP ratified their contract nearly a month before PEF. As we
pressed the state for action on the PEF paybill, we were told that in fairness
to UUP, their paybill needed to be done before PEF's. UUP expects their bill to
be in the Legislature early next week.
The PEF paybill is now front and center. Historically the content of the PEF paybill is very similar to the CSEA paybill, which should help the state expedite their review.
We had projected raises to occur in June with retro payments to follow on a schedule to be adopted by OSC. The unusual delay resulting from the unexpected change of governors will delay the raise. We are now projecting a July implementation date.
Keep an eye on our website for the most recent news.
- EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
Tuition and
Education Program Parameters are Set
Since
the April 11, 2008 ratification of the Professional, Scientific and Technical
Unit (PS&T Unit) Agreement the Professional Development Committee (PDC) has met
to determine how the funds in Article 15 will be allocated for training and
education programs. The PDC has established the programs described below.
Program guidelines and application forms will be available in mid June.
Retroactive Programs: April 2, 2007 - March 31, 2008
These programs apply only to expenses incurred from April 2, 2007 through March
31, 2008. Applications for these programs must be postmarked July 1, 2008 or
thereafter.
- College Tuition Reimbursement Program
Employees in the PS&T Unit can submit up to two (2) claims for up to $600 each
for credit-bearing courses at accredited colleges or universities. The PDC has
allocated up to $1.7 million for this program and reimbursement is on a
first-come, first-served basis.
- Voucher Alternative (VALT) Program
Employees in the PS&T Unit can submit one (1) claim for up to $600 for
reimbursement for workshops and conferences attended between April 2, 2007 and
March 31, 2008. The PDC has allocated up to $275,000 towards this program and
reimbursement is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Programs: April 1, 2008 - March 31, 2009
These programs apply only to expenses incurred from April 1, 2008 through March
31, 2009. Applications for these programs must be postmarked July 1, 2008 or
thereafter.
- College Tuition Reimbursement Program
Employees in the PS&T Unit can submit claims for up to two (2) courses. The
standard claim rate will be up to $600 for undergraduate courses and up to
$1,200 for graduate courses. However, for a four credit hour undergraduate
course, claims for up to $725 can be submitted.
- Voucher Alternative (VALT) Program
Employees in the PS&T Unit can submit claims for up to $600 for reimbursement
for workshop and conference attendance.
- Certification and Licensure Exam Fee Reimbursement Program
Employees in the PS&T Unit can submit claims for up to $600 for initial
licensure and certification exam fees.
In addition, the Public Service Workshops Program (PSWP) and Workforce
Initiative Grants will be available in fall 2008.
Please note, this is just a brief summary and eligibility will be governed by
the program guidelines. Look for guidelines and application forms on the GOER
and PEF websites beginning in mid June.
PEF website:
www.pef.org
GOER website:
www.goer.state.ny.us/train
Email
address:
PSTtraining@goer.state.ny.us
Also, the PDC has begun discussions on re-establishment of the tuition voucher
program in April 2009. Additional details will be forthcoming this summer.
RALLY
PEF nurses at the Sunmount Developmental Disabilities Services Office in Tupper
Lake will be holding a rally on Thursday, May 29 at 4 p.m. to bring attention to
the all-time low staffing levels at the facility. The rally will take place in
front of the administration building at 2445 State Route 30. For more
information, call (315) 323-0884.
MEMBER-ONLY
BENEFITS
-
AMUSEMENT PARK DISCOUNTS
The new
amusement park discount ticket prices are now available. For additional
information visit our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com.
- BASEBALL TICKET DISCOUNTS
Baseball Tickets are now available through Membership Benefits for the following
local baseball teams:
- Rochester Red Wings
- Buffalo Bisons
- Syracuse Chiefs
- Binghamton Mets
- Tri-City Valley Cats (7/19/08 PEF Member Night - extra discounts
available)
- Hudson Valley Renegades
- Batavia Muckdogs
- Brooklyn Cyclones
Contact our office or visit our website
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
for prices.
- NEW DISCOUNT MOVIE TICKETS
AVAILABLE
In addition to our other movie discounts, we are now selling discount
tickets for Dipson Theatres in the Buffalo area and Bow Tie Cinemas in
Schenectady. For a complete statewide listing of theatres and prices visit
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com.
- Disney's The Lion King
- Minskoff Theatre, New York City
Membership Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for
the August 19, 2008, 8:00pm show at the Minskoff Theatre in New York City
(Broadway & 45th Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating),
regular price is $111.25. Orders will be filled on a first come first serve
basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com.
Click on "Performing Arts/Theatre".
- Disney's Mary Poppins
- New Amsterdam Theatre, New York City
Membership Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for
the July 10, 2008, 8:00pm show at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City
(214 West 42nd Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating),
regular price is $111.25. Ticket supplies are very limited. Orders will be
filled on a first come first serve basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a
Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com.
Click on "Performing Arts/Theatre".
- Gift Cards and Certificates
Membership Benefits is now selling discount gift cards and certificates for
Panera Bread, Allposters.com/Art.com, JCPenney and Simply Certificates. For
information on purchasing gift cards visit our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
and click on "Entertainment".
- 2008 SARATOGA PERFORMING ARTS
CENTER DISCOUNT FOR: NEW YORK CITY BALLET, PHILADELPHIA ORCHESTRA AND SARATOGA
WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL GRAND TASTING AND AUCTION
PEF members save on select performances. To order tickets visit
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
and click "Performing Arts/Theatre" to print out an order form. In addition, a
limited number of PEF Member Night tickets for the Ballet (7/24/08) and
Orchestra (8/14/08) are available. Call Membership Benefits 800 342-4306, ext.
243 for details.
- BRONX ZOO
PEF members can save on tickets for the Bronx Zoo. To order tickets,
visit
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
and click on "Amusement Parks".
- NEW REGIONAL VENDORS
The Membership Benefits Trustees have recently approved several new Regional
Vendors that are offering a discount for PEF members. For a complete listing,
visit
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
and click on "Regional Vendors."
- WATKINS GLEN DISCOUNTS
PEF Members can get a discount for the Camping World Grand Prix (7/4 -
7/6) and the Finger Lakes Wine Festival (7/18 - 7/20). For details call Mike
Evranian at (607) 535-2486, ext. 351.
- GREAT ESCAPE LODGE
Members can save on select dates for overnight lodging at the Great
Escape Lodge, Lake George. Stay at the Lodge May 18-22, September 5, 14-18 or
19, 21-25 and pay only $149.00 per night. Visit our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
and click on
"Limited Time Offers" for details.
- SYSTEM MAINTENANCE 5/29/08
The PEF Membership Benefits on-line ticket sales will be shut down for system
maintenance from 3:00 pm on 5/29/08 until 10:00 am on 5/30/08. We apologize for
any inconvenience
For additional information on these benefits you can contact our office at 800
342-4306, ext. 243 or visit us on-line at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
PEF
Membership Benefits Program
PO Box 12414
Albany, NY 12212
PONDERABLE
QUOTE
"We take the shortest route to the puck
and arrive in ill humor."
-Bobby Clarke
5/2/2008
CONTRACT UPDATE
The contract process continues along its normal course. A draft pay bill,
necessary for its implementation, has come out of the Division of Budget (DOB)
and is being reviewed by the Governor's counsel's office and PEF. State
representatives expect an expeditious review. This is the last step before
introduction in the legislature. We will update our website when the bill is
sent to the legislature.
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/index.htm
e HealthBeat
- Act now to preserve health benefits for
student dependents
http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
May and June are traditionally the months in which most full-time students complete their studies. If you have a child who is age 19 or older and enrolled in the NYS Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP), it is important to determine if he or she remains eligible for coverage. Your unmarried dependent children who are age 19 or over but under age 25 are eligible if they are full-time students at an accredited educational institution, and are otherwise not eligible for employer group or military health care coverage (e.g., cadets at U.S. military academies).
- Generic Albuterol Inhalers No Longer Available http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
Albuterol inhalers are used for asthma and related conditions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has mandated that albuterol inhalers containing the propellant chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) be discontinued from the market by December 31, 2008. They are being replaced by albuterol inhalers containing a more environmentally friendly propellant known as hydrofluoroalkane (HFA). Several HFA inhalers are available as alternatives to albuterol CFC inhalers; however, they are available only as brand name medications.
MEMBER ONLY
BENEFITS
(800) 342-4306 ext. 243
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
- DISNEY'S THE LION KING - MINSKOFF THEATRE, NEW YORK CITY
Membership
Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for the August
19, 2008, 8:00pm show at the Minskoff Theatre in New York City (Broadway & 45th
Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating), regular price is
$111.25. Ticket supplies are very limited. Orders will be filled on a first come
first serve basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or by calling 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
- DISNEY'S MARY POPPINS - NEW AMSTERDAM THEATRE, NEW YORK CITY
Membership
Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for the July 10,
2008, 8:00pm show at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City (214 West 42nd
Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating), regular price is
$111.25. Ticket supplies are very limited. Orders will be filled on a first come
first serve basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or by calling 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
- GIFT CARDS AND
CERTIFICATES
Membership
Benefits is now selling discount gift cards and certificates for Panera Bread,
Allposters.com/Art.com, JCPenney and Simply Certificates. For information on
purchasing gift cards visit our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or call Membership Benefits Program at 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
PONDERABLE
QUOTE
"Most of
man's problems upon this planet, in the long history of the race, have been met
and solved either partially or as a whole by experiment based on common sense
and carried out with courage."
Francis Perkins
3/28/2008
CONTRACT MEETINGS - OPEN TO
ALL PEF MEMBERS!
Hear from your Contract Team - Get answers to your questions
- PEF REGION 6 (800) 724-5005
Monday, March 31
WHITESBORO
6 - 9 pm
Hart's Hill Inn
Please call Region 6 (Wendy) for reservation
Tuesday, April 1
JOHNSTOWN
5 - 8 pm
White Holland House
Please call Wendy for reservations
- PEF REGION 7
(888) 498-8532
Wednesday, April 2
PLATTSBURGH
5:30 pm.
Plattsburgh Comfort Inn
Please call Region 7 (Darlene) for reservations
Thursday, April 3
SARANAC LAKE
5:30 pm
Hotel Saranac
Please call Region 7 for reservations
Friday, April 4
MALONE
4:30
Gallagher's
Please call Region 7 for reservations
PEF REGIONAL
OFFICES
Region 1 - Buffalo (800) 462-1462
Region 2 - Hornell (800) 724-5001
Region 3 - Rochester (800) 724-5003
Region 4 - Syracuse (800) 724-5004
Region 5 - Binghamton (800) 724-4998
Region 6 - Utica (800) 724-5005
Region 7 - Malone (888) 498-8532
Region 8 - Albany (800) 342-4306, 228
Region 9 - Poughkeepsie (800) 548-4870
Region 10 - NYC (800) 522-8700
Region 11 - Brooklyn (866) 897-9775
Region 12 - Long Island (800) 832-5284
CONTRACT BALLOT INFORMATION
Members who have not received a ballot by 03/27/08 are to call AAA to request a
ballot
or replacement ballot at 1-800-529-5218.
To vote on the contract one would have needed to be a union member as of
02/06/08.
If a member's address has changed they still need to call AAA. As long as they
are
on our list of members AAA will send them a new ballot.
LONGEVITY AWARDS
Employees newly
eligible for a 5 year award will need to wait until after the contract is
ratified to receive the award.
Employees who are newly eligible for a 10 year award will receive their 5 year award and after ratification of the contract receive the additional $1250.
Those who received an award last year and have remained otherwise eligible will receive the award this year on the following schedule created by OSC.
"Payment will be processed in a separate check dated April 16, 2008 (Administration) and April 24, 2008 (Institution). There will be no direct deposit for this payment."
TAKE ACTION
TODAY!
- STOP THE OCFS
CLOSURES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopocfsclosures
- STOP CLOSURE OF
CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopdocsclosures
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"Want to
multiply your life? Then divide yourself from people of subtraction, and
surround yourself with people of addition."
Austin Staubus
3/21/2008
CONTRACT MEETINGS
- OPEN TO ALL PEF MEMBERS!
Hear from your Contract Team - Get answers to your questions
- PEF
REGION 2 (1-800-724-5007)
Monday, March 24
HORNELL
3:00 - 4:00 pm Hornell State Office Bldg
Tuesday,
March 25
ELMIRA
- Elmira PC - 11:30 - 1 pm
- Elmira C.F. Clubhouse - 3 - 5 pm
- PEF
REGION 5 (1-800-724-4998)
Thursday, March 27
- ENDICOTT
2001 Perimeter Road East Building 16
3rd Floor Training Room
Two sessions - Noon and 1:30pm
- BINGHAMTON - Binghamton Regency 7:00 p.m.
Friday,
March 28, 2008
OXFORD
- DOH Vets home 4:00 p.m.
- PEF REGION 6 (800) 724-5005
Monday, March 31
WHITESBORO
6 - 9 pm
Hart's Hill Inn
Please call Region 6 (Wendy) for reservation
Tuesday,
April 1
JOHNSTOWN
5 - 8 pm
White Holland House
Please call Wendy for reservations
- PEF REGION 7 (888) 498-8532
Wednesday, April 2
PLATTSBURGH
5:30 pm.
Plattsburgh Comfort Inn
Please call Region 7 (Darlene) for reservations
Thursday, April 3
SARANAC LAKE
5:30 pm
Hotel Saranac
Please call Region 7 for reservations
Friday,
April 4
MALONE
4:30
Gallagher's
Please call Region 7 for reservations
CONTACT INFO FOR PEF REGIONAL OFFICES
Region 1 - Buffalo (800) 462-1462
Region 2 - Hornell (800) 724-5001
Region 3 - Rochester (800) 724-5003
Region 4 - Syracuse (800) 724-5004
Region 5 - Binghamton (800) 724-4998
Region 6 - Utica (800) 724-5005
Region 7 - Malone (888) 498-8532
Region 8 - Albany (800) 342-4306, 228
Region 9 - Poughkeepsie (800) 548-4870
Region 10 - NYC (800) 522-8700
Region 11 - Brooklyn (866) 897-9775
Region 12 - Long Island (800) 832-5284
TAKE ACTION
TODAY!
- STOP THE
OCFS
CLOSURES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopocfsclosures
- STOP
CLOSURE OF
CORRECTIONAL
FACILITIES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopdocsclosures
e-HEALTH BEAT
Important Claim Deadlines
March 31, 2008 is the last day to submit your 2007 claims to: United
HealthCare for the Empire Plan Basic Medical Program, the Home Care Advocacy
Program (HCAP), and for non-network physical medicine services; ValueOptions for
non-network mental health and substance abuse services; and Caremark for
prescriptions filled in 2007 at non-participating pharmacies or without using
your Empire Plan Benefit Card.
Read entire article here:
http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
Why is This "Nosy" Company Asking About My
Accident?
If you get a letter from a company called Healthcare Recoveries, Inc. (HRI)
asking about a medical claim you have made for benefits under the Empire Plan,
it's O.K. to answer it. Answering won't delay or reduce the payment of your
claim, and it might save the Empire Plan money and help reduce premiums for all
Empire Plan enrollees. Here's how it works. If you or one of your covered
dependents is injured, another person or their insurance company may be legally
responsible.
Read entire article here:
http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
SEIU sponsors ‘Everybody
Wins’ contest
PEF
members are invited to participate in the “Everybody Wins” contest sponsored by
the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). If you have an idea on how to
improve public services, you could win the first prize of $5,000, a $4,000
second prize, or a $3,000 third prize. Entries must be submitted through its Web
site at
www.publicdivisionvision.org/everybody_wins_guidelines
That’s also the site where you will find all the rules and entry information. Or, you can also mail your submission, as long as it is postmarked by midnight, April 4.
All top winners will be
recognized at the SEIU 2008 Convention in
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"If we have learned one thing from the history
of invention and discovery, it is that, in the long run - and often in the short
one - the most daring prophecies seem laughably conservative."
Arthur C. Clarke
3/14/2008
CONTRACT MEETINGS
- OPEN TO ALL PEF MEMBERS!
Hear from your
Contract Team - Get answers to your questions
- PEF REGION 4
(1-800-724-5004)
Friday March 14, 2008
SOLVAY
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Twin Trees Too Restaurant, Milton Ave., Solvay
- PEF REGION 1
(1-800-462-1462)
Monday, March 17
BUFFALO
Holiday Inn
Airport (Genesee St.)
5:30 pm
-PEF REGION 3
(1-800-724-5004)
Wednesday, March
19
ROCHESTER
RIT Inn and Conference Center at 6:30
- PEF REGION 4
Thu March 20th, 2008
SYRACUSE
9th floor auditorium
Weiskotten Hall
SUNY Upstate Medical University
2:15pm & 3:30 pm
- PEF REGION 2 (1-800-724-5007)
Monday, March 24
HORNELL
3:00 - 4:00 pm Hornell State Office Bldg
- PEF REGION 5 (1-800-724-4998)
Thursday, March 27
GLENDALE -
Noon
BINGHAMTON - Binghamton Regency 7:00 p.m.
Friday,
March 28, 2008
OXFORD
- DOH Vets home 4:00 p.m.
- PEF REGION 6 (800) 724-5005
3/31/08
WHITESBORO
6 - 9 pm
Hart's Hill Inn
Please call Region 6 (Wendy) for reservation
4/1/08
JOHNSTOWN
5 - 8 pm
White Holland House
Please call Wendy for reservations
- PEF REGION 7 (888) 498-8532
4/2/08
PLATTSBURGH
5:30 pm.
Plattsburgh Comfort Inn
Please call Region 7 (Darlene) for reservations
4/3/08
SARANAC LAKE
5:30 pm
Hotel Saranac
Please call Region 7 for reservations
4/4/08
MALONE
4:30
Gallagher's
Please call Region 7 for reservations
CONTACT INFO FOR PEF REGIONAL OFFICES
Region 1 Buffalo (800) 462-1462
Region 2 Hornell (800) 724-5001
Region 3 Rochester (800) 724-5003
Region 4 Syracuse (800) 724-5004
Region 5 Binghamton (800) 724-4998
Region 6 Utica (800) 724-5005
Regions 7 Malone (888) 498-8532
Regions 8 Albany (800) 342-4306, 228
Region 9 Poughkeepsie (800) 548-4870
Regions 10 NYC (800) 522-8700
Regions 11 Brooklyn (866) 897-9775
Region 12 Long Island (800) 832-5284
CONTRACT
INFO
DETAILED 2007 - 2011 CONTRACT INFORMATION
POSTED AT
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/index.htm
TAKE ACTION
TODAY!
- STOP
THE OCFS CLOSURES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopocfsclosures
- STOP CLOSURE OF CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopdocsclosures
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS PROGRAM
(800) 342-4306
ext. 243
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
Disney's The Lion King - Minskoff Theatre, New
York City
Membership Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for
the May 25, 2008, 6:30pm show at the Minskoff Theatre in New York City (Broadway
& 45th Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating), regular
price is $111.25. Ticket supplies are very limited. Orders will be filled on a
first come first serve basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a
Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.org
or by calling 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
Gift Cards and Certificates
Membership Benefits is now selling discount gift cards and certificates
for Panera Bread, Allposters.com/Art.com and Simply Certificates. For
information on purchasing gift cards visit our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or call Membership Benefits Program at 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"The criteria
for success: you are free, you live in the present moment,
you are useful to the people around you, and
you feel love for all
humanity."
-
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
3/7/2008
CONTRACT MEETINGS
- OPEN TO ALL PEF MEMBERS!
Hear from your
Contract Team - Get answers to your questions
- PEF REGION 12 (1-800-832-5284)
Monday, March 10
HAUPPAUGE
PEF Field Office
1383-16 Veterans Memorial Highway
2 Meetings: 4:30 pm - 5:30
5:30 - 6:30
Tuesday, March 11
HAUPPAUGE
State Office Building - Cafeteria
2:00 p.m.
- PEF
REGION 4 (1-800-724-5004)
Wednesday March 12, 2008
AUBURN
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Curley's Restaurant (downstairs), 96 State St., Auburn, NY
Thursday March 13, 2008
WATERTOWN
Time: Noon
Location: American Legion Post #61 138 Sterling St. Watertown.
- PEF
Region 7 (1-888-498-8532)
Thursday March 13, 2008
OGDENSBURG
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Location: Freight House
- PEF
REGION 4 (1-800-724-5004)
Friday March 14, 2008
SOLVAY
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Twin Trees Too Restaurant, Milton Ave., Solvay
- PEF REGION 1 (1-800-462-1462)
Monday, March 17
BUFFALO
Holiday Inn Airport (Genesee St.)
5:30 pm
-PEF REGION 3 (1-800-724-5004)
Wednesday, March 19
ROCHESTER
RIT Inn and Conference Center at 6:30
- PEF
REGION 2 (1-800-724-5007)
Monday, March 24
HORNELL
3:00 - 4:00 pm Hornell State Office Bldg
- PEF
REGION 5 (1-800-724-4998)
Thursday, March 27
GLENDALE - Noon
BINGHAMTON - Binghamton Regency 7:00 p.m.
-
BEYOND (contact your Regional office for details)
3/31 Region 6
4/1 Region 6
4/2 Region 7
4/3 Region 7
CONTACT
INFO FOR PEF REGIONAL OFFICES
Region 1 Buffalo (800) 462-1462
Region 2 Hornell (800) 724-5001
Region 3 Rochester (800) 724-5003
Region 4 Syracuse (800) 724-5004
Region 5 Binghamton (800) 724-4998
Region 6 Utica (800) 724-5005
Regions 7 Malone (888) 498-8532
Regions 8 Albany (800) 342-4306, 228
Region 9 Poughkeepsie (800) 548-4870
Regions 10 NYC (800) 522-8700
Regions 11 Brooklyn (866) 897-9775
Region 12 Long Island (800) 832-5284
CONTRACT INFO
DETAILED 2007 - 2011 CONTRACT INFORMATION
POSTED AT
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/index.htm
TAKE ACTION TODAY!
- STOP THE OCFS
CLOSURES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopocfsclosures
- STOP
CLOSURE OF CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopdocsclosures
SCHOLARSHIP GRANT
Do you know a
member who is paying tuition for any further education program? Chances are,
they are eligible for an AFT scholarship grant of $1,000.
American Federation of Teachers Robert G. Porter Scholars Program
This program offers 10 one-time $1,000 grants to AFT members to assist with
their continuing education. This program is now accepting applications for
2008. APPLICATIONS MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN MARCH 31, 2008.
For more applications and information about this grant and other scholarships go to www.pef.org and click on the Scholarship link in the blue navigation bar.
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"I am always
doing that which I can not do, in order that I may learn how to do it."
Pablo Picasso (1881 - 1973)
2/29/2008
CONTRACT MEETINGS - OPEN TO ALL PEF MEMBERS!
Hear from your Contract Team - Get answers to your
questions
- PEF
REGION 9 - Mid Hudson (1-800-548-4870)
Tuesday March 4, 2008
PEEKSKILL, NY
11:30am- 2:00 p.m.
Local 21 Union Hall
1024 McKinley Street
Peekskill, NY 10566
POUGHKEEPSIE
5:00 pm
Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel- Dutchess Room 40 Civic Center Plaza Poughkeepsie, NY
12603
- PEF
REGION 10 - NYC (1-800-522-8700)
Thursday, March 6
MANHATTAN
PEF FIELD OFFICE
225 Broadway - Suite 1406
2 Meetings: 4:30 to 5:45 p.m.
6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
- PEF
REGION 12 (1-800-832-5264)
Monday, March 10
HAUPPAUGE
PEF Field Office
1383-16 Veterans Memorial Highway
2 Meetings: 4:30 pm - 5:30
5:30 - 6:30
- PEF
REGION 1 (1-800-462-1462)
Monday, March 17
BUFFALO
Holiday Inn Airport(Genesee St.)
5:30 pm
-PEF
REGION 3 (1-800-724-5004)
Wednesday, March 19
ROCHESTER
RIT Inn and Conference Center at 6:30
- PEF
REGION 2 (1-800-724-5007)
Monday, March 24
HORNELL
3:00 - 4:00 pm Hornell State Office Bldg
- PEF
REGION 5 (1-800-724-4998)
Thursday, March 27
GLENDALE - Noon
BINGHAMTON - Binghamton Regency 7:00 p.m.
CONTRACT INFO
DETAILED 2007 - 2011 CONTRACT INFORMATION POSTED AT
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/index.htm
TAKE ACTION TODAY!
- STOP THE OCFS CLOSURES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopocfsclosures
- STOP CLOSURE OF CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopdocsclosures
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
- NURSE LOBBY DAY 2008 - TUESDAY, JUNE 10
http://www.pef.org/nurses/index.shtml
- PEF WOMEN'S COMMITTEE PRESENTS:
-
Strategies that Promote Women's Activities and Leadership
- Update on Women's Health Issues
WHERE
The Inn at Saratoga
231 Broadway
Saratoga Springs, NY
WHEN
Saturday, March 29
11:30 - 3:30 pm
WHO
All PEF members and their guests
Light lunch
to be provided - Pre-registration is required - Registration fee is $20.00 -
Please send check made payable to PEF by March 21, attention: Kim Partridge
Registration is limited to 50 people
For more information or a registration form, please contact Kim Partridge at (800) 342-4306, ext. 235 or kpartridge@pef.org
e-HealthBeat Flex Spending Account Reminders http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
Now that we're well into 2008, here are some tips to help you make the most of the pre-tax dollars in your Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) or Dependent Care Advantage Account (DCAA).
The following apply to both HCSA and DCAA:
1) New employees can submit a change in status application within 60 days of their start date. This change will benefit employees who don't receive their new employee orientation in a timely fashion.
2)
Employees can now submit change in status applications on-line instead of via
paper. The application is at
http://flexspend.state.ny.us/.
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"Anger is a symptom, a way of cloaking and expressing feelings too
awful to experience directly - hurt, bitterness, grief and, most of all, fear."
Joan Rivers
2/22/2008
CONTRACT UPDATE #37
PEF EXECUTIVE BOARD APPROVES
On February 21, 2008 the PEF Executive Board Approved Sending the
2007/2011 Contract to PEF Members for Their Vote! What's Next?
TIMELINE
2/21/2008
Executive Summary, Side by Side “Gains and Trade-Offs”, and contract text sent
to the home of every PEF member
2/25–4/10 Contract Info Membership “Town” Meetings held throughout the State
3/20/2008 Ballots Mailed to Membership (by AAA)
4/10/2008 Ballot Return Deadline
4/11/2008 Ballot Count (by AAA)
MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS
PEF is holding the following meetings to provide details and answer your
questions about the proposed contract:
- WEEK OF 2/25
BROOKLYN/QUEENS (Region 11)
(for details call 1-866-897-9775)
- February 26 (Tuesday) - 5:30 pm – PEF Brooklyn Field Office (205 Montague St.
Suite 400)
CAPITAL DISTRICT
(for details call 1-800-342-4306, ext. 228)
February 27 (Wednesday) – 5:30 pm Albany – E mail
shunt@pef.org or
call 1-800-342-4306, ext. 228 for location
February 28 (Thursday) – Noon Albany - ESP Convention Center Meeting Room 6
February 29 (Friday) – Noon Albany – E mail shunt@pef.org or call 1-800-342-4306, ext. 228 for location
- BEYOND NEXT WEEK (contact your Regional office for details)
3/3 Region 9
3/4 Region 9
3/5 Region 9/Region 10
3/6 Region 10
3/7 Region 10
3/10 Region 12
3/11 Region 12
3/12 Region 12
3/13 Region 4/Region 7
3/14 Region 4
3/17 Region 1
3/18 Region 1
3/19 Region 1/Region 3
3/20 Region 3
3/21 Region 3
3/24 Region 2
3/25 Region 2
3/26 Region 2/Region 5
3/27 Region 5
3/28 Region 5
3/31 Region 6
4/1 Region 6
4/2 Region 7
4/3 Region 7
CONTACT INFO FOR PEF
REGIONAL OFFICES
Region 1 – Buffalo (800) 462-1462
Region 2 – Hornell (800) 724-5001
Region 3 – Rochester (800) 724-5003
Region 4 – Syracuse (800) 724-5004
Region 5 – Binghamton (800) 724-4998
Region 6 – Utica (800) 724-5005
Regions 7 – Malone (888) 498-8532
Regions 8 – Albany (800) 342-4306, 228
Region 9 – Poughkeepsie (800) 548-4870
Regions 10 – NYC (800) 522-8700
Regions 11 – Brooklyn (866) 897-9775
Region 12 - Long Island (800) 832-5284
CONTRACT '07 - '11 - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- TUITION PROGRAMS
Q – Will the tuition reimbursement programs be reinstated?
A - The tuition program has been fully funded in our new contract. In fact, we
have increased the funding level.
Following ratification by our membership the PEF/State Committee responsible for these matters will publish program specifics for 2008 as well as the rules regarding retroactivity, if any, for the period back to April, '07.
Unlike any previous agreement we’ve negotiated, the new agreement provides funding for the education programs (and other committees as well) for the 9 months of 2011 after the new agreement expires. That means that those people still using the educational programs in the summer and fall of 2011 will not be left without tuition benefits as has happened in the past.
- DCAA
Q - What is the status of the DCAA benefits?
A - For bargaining unit members with dependant care expenses, the employer
contribution to the pre-tax Dependant Care Advantage Account (DCAA) will be
returning for Calendar Year 2009. The contract requires a contribution of at
least $200 to $600 to the DCAA (based on an income sensitive sliding scale) in
calendar year 2009. However, the multi-union Joint Advisory Board which
oversees the EAP and Family Benefits Program has already approved an increase in
that scale for bargaining units with ratified agreements. That enhanced scale
is:
Employee Gross Annual
Salary Employer Contribution
Up to $30, 000 $800
$30,001 - $40,000 $700
$40,001 - $50,000 $600
$50,001 - $60,000 $500
$60,001 - $70,000 $400
Over $70,000 $300
- RETROACTIVE PAY
Q- When will I receive my retroactive pay?
A- The schedule for retro payments is dependent upon our members ratifying, the
legislature passing a paybill and OSC issuing payroll bulletins.
At this early stage we can only point out that other unions who completed their negotiations earlier expect payments to occur 4-6 payroll periods after membership ratification.
- LEAVING STATE SERVICE?
Q- I want to retire soon. Is there any retroactivity or other complexity I
should be aware of?
A- Be assured that whether or not you are on payroll at the time the retroactive
adjustments are made, you are still entitled to them. That being said, there
are some important dates right around your projected retirement date that you
may want to consider.
To be eligible for longevity
awards, you must not retire effective March 31. Retirements are processed at
the beginning of the day, and longevity eligibility is done at the close of
business. If you’re interested in counting the 2008 longevity award in your
final average salary you must move your date to April 1 or later.
When there is an April 1 raise due, be aware it may not be implemented on April
1. The State Finance Law requires that April 1 salary increases take effect on
the first day of the pay period that starts nearest to April 1. That is the
reason for the different effective dates for the percentage increases for the
institution and administrative payrolls. For 2008 we believe that the dates are
April 3 for the Administrative Payroll and March 28 for the institution
payroll. Again, to benefit from this increase (in terms of the value of accrued
vacation or sick leave for retiree health insurance), you must make your
retirement effective after those dates.
While a short delay in your retirement date will have only a very small or no impact on your final average salary, waiting until after the April raises are implemented will raise the value of a “day” for the retirement and other contractual benefits for liquidating accrued time. You can increase the value of your vacation payout and raise the value of sick leave used to offset your health insurance cost in retirement by planning your retirement date carefully.
April retirements are tricky, and be sure to watch the dates as you plan!
- MORE INFO
Q – Where can I
get additional information about our new contract?
A- Contract info including the newly negotiated salary schedules is in the mail
to every PEF member. Detailed info is also posted on line at
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/index.htm
Have a question or comment about the tentative agreement? Write PEFonline@pef.org
HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING
The State of New York/ Public Employees Federation (PEF) Statewide Health &
Safety Committee is offering:
Two-day training program entitled
“How to Investigate and Solve IAQ Problems”
May 20-21st, 2008
at the State Office Building, Governmental Plaza, Binghamton, NY
Two-day training program entitled
“Assessing, Sampling and Controlling Microbial
Contamination in the Indoor Environment
April 16-17, 2008
Buffalo Airport Hotel, 4600 Genesee Street, Cheektowaga NY.
Union leaders and agency managers are often confronted with concerns about indoor air quality and mold contamination in the work environment. The Committee recognizes the importance of providing trainings on these topics to management officials, union representatives, and building personnel. Understanding the fundamentals of indoor air quality and mold contamination and remediation can assist in the timely identification and resolution of these problems.
The programs are open to all Labor and Management Chairs of the Agency Level Health and Safety Committees as well as building managers, supervisors, and other building related personnel. Each agency Health & Safety Committee is invited to send up to three (3) representatives to the program. Selection of participants shall be done through a joint consultation between the agency and labor chairs of the committees.
To download the agendas and registration, please visit the PEF H&S Web site at:
http://www.pef.org/healthandsafety/iaq.htm
If you have any questions, please e-mail Kathy D'Arminio - PEF Chair Article 18 at kdarminio@pef.org.
PONDERABLE QUOTE
“I can teach a man to sail, but I can never
teach him why.”
Timothy Thatcher
1/31/2008
CONTRACT UPDATE #34
The Governor's senior staff have weighed in. State and PEF negotiators are
getting back to the bargaining table today.
The stage of bargaining we enter is extremely sensitive. Any communications misstep could blow it up. As we have done in the past there will be no further contract updates from PEF until we have either arrived at a deal or reached impasse.
The Contract Team (see them at http://www.pef.org/pst2007/contractteam07.htm) appreciates the support you have provided them from the beginning. Together we will achieve a fair and just deal.
1/27/2008
CONTRACT UPDATE #33
In the last update we reported on a meeting between top administration officials
of both the state and the union where PEF presented its case for a deal
comparable to those provided our co-workers. (See Update #32).
This past Friday, January 25, the employer reported they are in the process of getting final approval of their formal response.
Stay tuned.
STATE BUDGET
PEF PRESS RELEASE
Albany - "The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) is
satisfied with most aspects of Gov. Eliot Spitzer's budget proposal," said PEF
President Ken Brynien.
"We are
encouraged to see the continued progress toward reducing the reliance on costly
private consultants. We are pleased to see the governor has listened and is
responding to our calls to reduce workplace violence and is also increasing the
ability of the state Division of Parole to better supervise parolees.
"It's clear the governor recognizes the value that the state workforce
represents to the states' taxpayers and the savings that can be realized by
replacing high-priced private contractors with lower-cost state employees. The
best example is the governor's proposal to add 392 jobs in the state Department
of Transportation for bridge maintenance and inspection personnel.
"We are also pleased the governor is responding to our concerns to stop workplace violence by adding 152 positions to the state Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities to develop programs designed to reduce violence in the workplace.
"We remain concerned over the planned facility closings and consolidations in the state Department of Corrections and Office of Children and Family Services, and their impact on our members and the affected communities.
"We also await the details on the governor's plan to tap into the state Division of Lottery revenue. PEF represents the professionals who work at that agency and have dedicated their careers to ensuring the integrity of the agency"s operation.
"Finally, while the governor is taking the necessary steps to cut spending by reducing the state's reliance on costly private contractors, PEF will continue to press ahead with it's Go Public campaign to make the point that still more savings can be realized by relying less on private consultants and more on state employees," Brynien said.
PEF is the state's second-largest state-employee union, representing 58,000 professional, scientific and technical employees.
BUDGET BREAKDOWN
PEF's
detailed breakdown of the budget will be posted on our website (www.pef.org)
this coming
Wednesday, January 30, 2008.
LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE
It's not too soon to mark your calendar for the 37th Annual Conference of the
NYS Association of Black and Puerto Rican legislators. The three-day conference
will be held Friday, February 15 through Sunday, February 17 at the Empire State
Plaza Convention Center in Albany.
PEF will host a reception for state legislators from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza on Saturday, February 16.
CHILD CARE
Small Wonders Child Care Center in the State Office Building in Hauppauge, NY
(Long Island) is a not for profit child care center (SEFA 65926) that offers
sliding scale, discounted child care to all State employees and their families
(including grandchildren). It is a NYS Network Child Care Center. Care is
available year round for ages 8 weeks to 5 years as well as holiday care for 5
year olds. Nutritious breakfast, lunch and snack are provided for all ages.
For more information contact
Nancy
Picart, Director
631-360-0472
eHEALTHBEAT - MAKE THE MOST
OF YOUR VISION BENEFITS
and
Minimize Your Out of Pocket Expenses!
PEF has
prepared a user friendly guide to maximizing the vision benefits while
minimizing their costs. You can read and download here:
http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/pdffiles/visionplan_guide.pdf
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"My dream is to spend my life doing what I feel that I was born to do". Paul
Potts
See:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1k08yxu57NA
1/15/2008
CONTRACT UPDATE - #32
TABLE TALK
The Governor's Office of Employee Relations (GOER) is responsible for
negotiating contracts with 14 units. As of this writing, six have settled,
including the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) whose members recently
ratified their 4 agreements. In each of these negotiations GOER provided
significant economic relief in an area of concern expressed by the union.
When PEF negotiators were refused comparability of treatment we moved the dispute up the food chain. On January 14 PEF President Ken Brynien, Secretary - Treasurer Arlea Igoe, Vice President and Contract Team Chair Lou Matrazzo, and staff met with top administration officials at the Capitol in Albany. PEF presented its case for a deal comparable to those provided our co-workers. Specifically,
- 10's of millions of dollars in additional benefits were provided to our co workers and an equivalent offering has not been made to us
- Our dental and vision programs are in need of substantial improvement. We seek to raise our benefits to a level comparable to that currently available to the majority of other unionized state employees. We have two proposals which would accomplish this without adding significant economic cost to the employer.
A thorough presentation was made and the Governor's representatives told us our positions and factual substantiations were clear.
President Brynien closed the meeting with a statement emphasizing the serious nature of the impasse. The State promised an equally serious review of our issues with a higher level authority. They will get back with their position prior to close of business January 25.
Your negotiators insist that PEF members and their families be treated equitably. We ask that you stand with us on this fundamental principle. And as important, be ready to join with us in a fight for what is right should it become necessary.
For current updates, visit the PEF Web site, click on contract, or sign-up and read the Active Informed Member (AIM) bulletins.
eHEALTH BEAT
Empire Plan Prescription Drug Program Update
On January 1, 2008, UnitedHealth Care (UHC) and Medco replaced Empire Blue Cross
Blue Shield (BCBS) and Caremark as vendors for the Empire Plan Prescription Drug
Program. UHC/Medco is contracting with both retail chain pharmacies and
independent pharmacies to participate in the Empire Plan pharmacy network. They
expect to contract with most of the retail chain pharmacies currently in the
Empire Plan pharmacy network. Read the entire article at
www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"Find out
just what any people will quietly submit to and you have the exact measure of
the injustice and wrong which will be imposed on them."
Frederick
Douglass
1/7/2008
CONTRACT UPDATE - #31
TABLE
TALK
A very high level negotiations session has been scheduled for Monday January 14. The union will present its positions and supporting rationale in two key areas - comparability of treatment to other units which have settled their contracts and the PS&T dental/vision benefits program.
Work continues at the other levels of the process.
The strength of PEF is dependent on the participation of an active informed membership. Action without timely, accurate information is misguided. Information undelivered is unheard and unheeded. The PEF Member Mobilizer Network and the PEF AIM E-Mail Network for Active Informed Members get information to all members quickly and economically. Register/Volunteer for one or both networks at PEFonline@pef.org