Annual Vision Benefit

PEF and the state have signed a Memorandum of Agreement extending the annual vision benefit for adults with certain medical conditions through April 1, 2005, pending the outcome of the current collective bargaining negotiations. Article 9.25(b) of the 1999-2003 PEF/NYS contract includes an annual vision benefit for adults with certain documented medical conditions that may affect their vision. These medical conditions include diabetes, developing cataracts, taking a prescription drug that causes a change in vision, or any other medical condition that causes a change in vision.

This benefit was established as a pilot program, and was scheduled to expire on April 1, 2003 unless PEF and the state agreed to continue it. In a MOA signed on 2/12/03, it was extended for one year through April 1, 2004. It is now being extended another year through April 1, 2005, pending the outcome of negotiations.

If you have any questions regarding the extension of this benefit, please contact Lorraine Simpkins at PEF headquarters, 1-800-342-4306, ext. 283.