Contract Subject to Union Membership Ratification
By Hank Russell
Governor Kathy Hochul recently reached a contract agreement with the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) for a five-year term ending April 1, 2031. The agreement is subject to ratification by union membership, which includes more than 55,000 New York State employees in a wide variety of roles.
“This agreement is a fair deal for both CSEA members and the State of New York,” Hochul said. “Here in New York State, we value public servants and their dedication in making the Empire State a better place to live for all New Yorkers. I thank the leadership of CSEA for their work in realizing this deal, and I thank the members of CSEA for their commitment and contributions in delivering essential services to the people of New York State.”
The agreement includes increases in salary for employees in each year of the agreement. The agreement also includes paid prenatal leave, increases in location pay and health insurance changes that reduce costs for employees by eliminating certain co-pays and minimizing reliance on out-of-network providers.
Long Island Life & Politics reached out to CSEA New York for more details on the agreement. Union spokesperson Bryan Miller said that they cannot comment “as we are in a ratification process.”
This comes after the CSEA announced the changes to the Tier 6 system made by Hochul. This agreement includes a substantial reduction in employee contribution rates. Nearly 90% of CSEA members will now pay a 3% contribution rate, compared to roughly 30% under the previous system, according to the union.
Additionally, the union has also endorsed Hochul’s reelection campaign.
LILP reached out to the Assembly Republican Conference on this matter, but did not hear back as of press time.
CSEA represents New York State employees in four bargaining units. The contract agreement must be ratified by CSEA rank-and-file members.
“We applaud Governor Hochul’s recognition of the hard work CSEA members provide to the state every day through this fair contract,” CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan said. “This agreement delivers meaningful wage increases and helps address affordability challenges working people are facing.”