NY, state workers settles labor contract |
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Mon, 29 Oct 2007 20:38
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ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - More than 70,000 unionized state workers would get 3 percent raises retroactive to April, 3 percent raises in each of the next two years, and 4 percent raises in 2010, under a tentative labor deal announced Monday.The tentative agreement with the Civil Service Employees Association includes additional 'longevity pay' that can add hundreds of dollars in bonuses for administrative or blue-collar workers over the four-year contract. The contract also adds hundreds of dollars to employees for working in high-cost regions. Employees will pay some higher co-payments for insurance while gaining more benefits.The contract also continues the salary 'steps' system in which most employees get annual increases in pay regardless of whether a contract is in place. The issue was featured in a symposium earlier this month in Albany on the Taylor Law, which gives public workers collective bargaining rights while making public service strikes illegal.Empire Center for New York State Policy Director E.J. McMahon had argued the law as it stands is too costly for taxpayers because of the rise in political power of unions. He said taxpayers' ability to pay often isn't part of negotiations.The Spitzer administration and union didn't immediately release the total cost of the new wage and benefit deal.'This agreement shows that the parties can achieve fair and financially responsible results when bargaining balances the interests of both the state work force and the residents of New York state,' said Gov. Eliot Spitzer.'Our objective is always to get the best deal possible for our members while recognizing the needs of the people of the state,' said CSEA President Danny Donohue.The deal negotiated with union representatives still needs to be ratified by rank-and-file members and by the Legislature.Copyright 2007 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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