WNYLaborToday News - New York State Labor News

Unions 'Demand' Apollo Global Management 'Respect Workers' Rights'

Fri, 15 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - A group of Workers and Unions - including LiUNA Local 79, City University of New York’s Professional Staff Congress (PSC-CUNY), St. John’s University’s Chapter of the American Association of University Professors (SJU-AAUP), and the New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council, rallied against Worker mistreatment outside of Apollo Global’s Manhattan Headquarters. Apollo Global is partnering with RXR on the office-to-residential conversion project at Five Times Square, which will transform the 39-story office tower to 1,290 housing units. Twenty-five-percent of the new units are slated to be earmarked as affordable housing, but many of the Workers constructing the project are paid sub-standard wages too low to afford to live in the building once the conversion is completed. “I worked as a Construction Laborer for a Non-Union body shop at Five Times Square and jobsites around New York City, I was making close to minimum wage,” Construction Worker William White said. “It was difficult to survive and support my kids. I asked the company for a raise multiple times, but I never received one. I had to rely on Medicaid even though I was working full-time. I was afraid to lose my job because of my incarceration history. Construction Laborers at Five Times Square should be treated with the dignity they deserve and should be paid just wages with benefits.”

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To: Construction Workers Demand Apollo Global Respect Worker Rights – LaborPress

Photo Courtesy Of Laborers Local 79’s Instagram Page.

U.S. Senator Gillibrand 'Stands With Organized Labor Across New York State To Urge The Passage Of The Federal Faster Labor Contracts Act'

Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ACROSS NEW YORK STATE) - Standing with Labor Leaders and Advocates at Teamsters Local 118 in Rochester, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 43 in Syracuse and the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) in Albany. U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand urged the swift passage of the Faster Labor Contracts Act, which would require employers to come to the negotiating table quickly and ensure that they engage in good faith negotiations with Unions.

“Everything from groceries to gas costs more now than it did before President Trump took office, and American Workers are feeling the pinch,” Senator Gillibrand (Pictured Above, Speaking In Rochester) said. “Instead of focusing on lowering costs and helping people get ahead, President Trump has spent his time launching a full-frontal assault on Organized Labor. In the face of these attacks, we must not back down, which is why the passage of the Faster Labor Contracts Act is so critical. Every step forward for the American Worker - from every weekend off to every safe workplace and every living wage - came because Workers showed up, fought back, and refused to be silent.”

IBEW Local 43 Business Manager and Financial Secretary Alan Marzullo said: “On behalf of IBEW Local (43), I thank Senator Kirsten Gillibrand for visiting and for her strong support of the Faster Labor Contracts Act. This common-sense legislation protects Workers’ right to not only organize, but to secure a first contract in a timely manner. We appreciate Senator Gillibrand’s leadership and remain committed to working together to strengthen the Middle Class across our region.”

Senator Gillibrand has had a long-standing partnership with Organized Labor.

As a champion of Bills such as the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act and Never Forget the Heroes: James Zadroga, Ray Pfeifer, and Luis Alvarez Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund Act, Gillibrand has been a leader in the U.S. Senate, urging her colleagues to pass bipartisan legislation that would bolster and protect New York State Workers.

Meanwhile, Senator Gillibrand said she has sent a letter to the Department of Defense condemning the termination of Collective Bargaining Agreements for American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Members at Fort Drum and the Defense Finance Accounting Services (DFAS) in Rome.

To Read This Labor News Report In Its Entirety, Go To: On May Day: Senator Gillibrand Stands With Labor Across New York State - Kirsten Gillibrand | U.S. Senator for New York

Photo Courtesy Of New York State Assembly Member Harry Bronson’s Facebook Page.

WGAE, SAG-AFTRA, DGA & The NewsGuild 'Rally In Albany To Pass' The New York Fundamental Artificial Intelligence Requirements In News Act

Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ALBANY, NEW YORK) - Journalists and leadership from the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the Directors Guild of America (DGA) and the NewsGuild of New York joined New York State Senator Patricia Fahy (Democrat-Albany) and Assembly Member Nily Rozic (Democrat-New York City) to urge the State Legislature to pass the New York Fundamental Artificial Intelligence Requirements in News Act (The NY FAIR News Act) - bipartisan legislation that establishes critical protections for Journalists, Media Professionals and the broader public to ensure that the integrity of the news and its Workforce are safeguarded against Artificial Intelligence. During a press conference held on The Million Dollar Staircase inside the State Capitol, Fahy and Rozi were joined by Slate’s What Next podcast Host and Managing Editor Mary Harris, Ziff David Senior Editor and Union Chair Jason Cohen, CBS News Associate Director Scott Berger, Berlin Station Writer and the Co-Chair of the WGAE AI Task Force Larry Cohen, WGAE Executive Director Sam Wheeler and SAG-AFTRA Chief Labor Policy Officer and Executive Director and Assembly Member Emily Gallagher. Said Fahy: “Perhaps one of the industries at most risk from the use of Artificial Intelligence is Journalism - and as a result, the public’s trust and confidence in accurate news reporting. According to the National Broadcasters Association, more than (76%) of Americans report being concerned about AI stealing or reproducing Journalism and local news stories, as AI continues to reshape our daily lives and careers across industries. To protect the public’s trust in reporting and the news they read every day and the Journalists who do the work, I’m proud to sponsor the NY FAIR News Act with Assembly Member Rozic and I look forward to working with my Colleagues in the State Senate to enact common sense guidelines that protect New Yorkers from the unintended consequences of AI.”

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To: Statement on The NY FAIR News Act And WGAE, SAG-AFTRA, DGA & NewsGuild Rally Albany to Pass the NY FAIR News Act | Press Room

40 Unifi Customer Service Workers Employed At The Westchester County Airport 'Go Union,' Vote To Join The International Association Of Machinists

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NEW YORK) - The International Association of Machinists (IAM) Air Transport Territory is welcoming 40 new Members at Unifi - North America’s largest Aviation Service Provider, who are employed at the Westchester County Airport (HPN), marking another strong IAM organizing win for Working People in the Airline Industry.

The Customer Service Workers perform critical work supporting Airline operations, including at Delta Air Lines and Breeze Airways.

The Unifi Workers won their Union Drive despite a brutal Anti-Union campaign by the company - one so aggressive the IAM was forced to file an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) Charge to hold the employer accountable and protect the Workers’ rights.

This victory was led by the Workers themselves, with strong support from the IAM Air Transport Territory and District 142.

IAM Air Transport Territory Associate Rachel Arnold said: “Unifi Workers fought hard for this and we did it together. This is about having respect on-the-job and a ‘real voice’ in our workplace. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished with Unifi Workers and excited for what comes next.”

The victory comes on the heels of several other IAM organizing wins with Unifi Workers, including in Fresno and San Jose, California and in Cleveland.

“Every organizing win strengthens the IAM Union and raises standards for all Workers in this industry,” IAM Air Transport Territory Chief of Staff Edison Fraser said. “We’re proud to welcome these new Members and stand with them as they move forward.”

To Read this Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Workers Win at Westchester County Airport: Unifi Customer Service Votes to Join the IAM Union - IAM Union

NYSNA-Represented North Country Health Care Workers Employed at UVM-Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital In Plattsburgh 'Speak Out for Safe Staffing & A Fair Contract'

Mon, 04 May 2026 14:00:00 -0400

(PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK) - New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA)-represented Health Care Workers employed at UVM (University of Vermont Health)-Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) recently held a speak-out to demand safe staffing and a fair contract. NYSNA Nurses, Health Care Professionals and IT Professionals have been fighting for a fair deal that protects patient care and ensures access to care for North Country patients since earlier this year. Northeast Center AFL-CIO Central Labor Council Secretary Kim Hartshorn joined NYSNA Members in solidarity at the speak-out. Last year, CVPH unilaterally changed staffing ratios in four Medical-Surgical Units over the objections of NYSNA, which the Union said violated their contract and in the process made the Hospital less safe. Nearly a year later, understaffing remains a widespread problem at the Hospital and puts safe, quality patient care at risk. At the bargaining table, CVPH management refuses to be held accountable for safety standards at all and has proposed changes to the contract that only stand to make staffing worse, Union Officials added. NYSNA Members at CVPH care deeply for their community and say they will not allow Hospital management to put patient care at risk. Nurses are calling attention to the current understaffing problem and to CVPH’s refusal to work with Nurses on a solution that prioritizes Nurse and patient safety over profits. NYSNA Members are continuing to push back against management’s proposed staffing changes until they reach a solution that ensures access to care and safe, quality patient care for the communities CVPH serves. Like NYSNA Members at CVPH, NYSNA Nurses at the Adirondack Medical Center and at UVM-Alice Hyde Medical Center continue to bargain for fair contracts that protect patient care in the North Country.

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: North Country Healthcare Workers Speak Out for Safe Staffing and a Fair Contract | New York State Nurses Association

Speak-Out Photo Courtesy Of NYSNA.

Kowal 'Unanimously Re-Elected' United University Professions President - Statewide Officers Also Elected At 2026 Spring Delegate Assembly In Albany

Sun, 03 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ALBANY, NEW YORK) - United University Professions (UUP) President Frederick E. Kowal has been re-elected by a unanimous vote of Delegates April 25 at UUP’s 2026 Spring Delegate Assembly in Albany.

Delegates of UUP, America’s largest Higher Education Union, elected Kowal by acclamation, with UUP Statewide Secretary-Treasurer Jeri O’Bryan-Losee casting one symbolic vote for the body.

Kowal, who ran unopposed, was elected to his fourth three-year term as UUP President.

Kowal was first elected in 2013.

Said Kowal: “I am grateful for the support and the trust that our Delegates have placed in me by re-electing me as UUP’s President. I look forward to continuing the vitally important work of this Union for our Members, our students, our patients and our communities. We will continue to fight for necessary funding for our cash-strapped campuses and for a strong, multi-year contract that provides job security and protections, superior affordable health care and well-deserved salary increases for our Members. Now, let’s get to work.”

O’Bryan-Losee and another Statewide Officer, Membership Development Officer Patrick Romain, were also elected by unanimous votes.

Both candidates ran unopposed and were elected to three-year terms by acclamation.

UUP Delegates also elected two new Members to the Union’s Statewide Executive Board, for three-year terms that start June 1st. They are: Brendan McGovern of Binghamton University, the President of UUP’s Binghamton Chapter; Matthew Smith of the State University of New York (SUNY) College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF). Smith serves as President of UUP’s ESF Chapter.

Six other Executive Board Members were re-elected to three-year terms. They are: Redetha Abrahams-Nichols, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. She is President of UUP’s Downstate Chapter; Bret Benjamin, University at Albany. He is UUP’s Chief Negotiator for a new contract with the state; Rebecca Bryan, SUNY Cortland; Mindy Heath, Upstate Medical University. She is President of UUP’s Upstate Chapter; Pamela Malone, SUNY Empire State University; and Samuel Marquez, SUNY Downstate

UUP represents more than 42,000 Academic and Professional Faculty and Retirees who work at 29 New York State-operated Campuses, including SUNY’s Public Teaching Hospitals and Health Science Centers in Brooklyn, Long Island and Syracuse.

UUP is an affiliate of New York State United Teachers (NYSUT), the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the National Education Association (NEA) and the AFL-CIO.

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: Press Release | Kowal unanimously reelected UUP president

UUP File Photo.

'Fallen Workers Honored' At Workers' Memorial Day Event In New York City

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - Workers, Labor Leaders and Government Officials gathered for a Workers’ Memorial Day event in Midtown Manhattan to honor New Yorkers who have died or suffered injury or illness on the job, and to renew the fight for strong workplace safety protections.

The event was organized by the New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council and the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH).

The program included remarks by New York City Deputy Mayor for Economic Justice Julie Su and 32BJ Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Executive Vice President Israel Melendez.

Held in front of 345 Park Avenue, the site of a workplace shooting last Summer that claimed the lives of four Workers, the event honored New Yorkers who have died on the job over the past year.

The names of more than 40 Workers were read aloud, including 32BJ SEIU Member Aland Etienne and PBA Member Detective Didarul Islam (promoted posthumously), who were among those killed at this site and whose Unions were in attendance.

Once again, construction was the most dangerous industry, with at least 10 known fatalities.

At least 11 Workers that were honored were from a variety of industries died as a result of workplace violence.

Workers’ Memorial Day comes at a time of growing concern over weakened workplace safety enforcement.

More than 380 Workers are killed every day in the U.S. due to preventable workplace hazards, and Federal Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) resources and staffing have declined to historic lows, leaving too many employers unaccountable.

Speakers called for stronger enforcement, stronger standards and the protection of Workers’ right to organize – noting Black, Latino and Immigrant Workers face disproportionate risks on the job.

New York City AFL-CIO Labor Council President Brendan Griffith said: “Workers’ Memorial Day is about remembering the workers we’ve lost and recommitting ourselves to the fight for the living. But we’re also at a moment when the systems meant to keep workers safe are being weakened. OSHA was created to guarantee every Worker the right to a safe job and that promise only matters if it’s enforced. Right now, we’re seeing fewer Inspectors, fewer inspections and fewer consequences for employers who break the law. A safe job is a fundamental right and the best way to keep jobs safe is through membership in a Union. The New York City Labor Movement will keep organizing and fighting until every Worker can return home safely at the end of the day.”

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Fallen Workers Honored at Workers’ Memorial Day Event in New York City | New York City Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO

Photos Courtesy Of The New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council.

A Memorial Day 'Call To Action' From CSEA President Mary Sullivan: "When CSEA Members Raise Our Voices Together, We Make Workplaces Safer For Everyone"

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ALBANY, NEW YORK) – Mary Sullivan, who serves as President of the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) - which represents 250,000 Public Workers across New York State, released the following on Workers Memorial Day 2026:

April 28th is Workers Memorial Day, when we remember Workers who were killed, injured or made ill on the job.

But it must be more than a day of remembrance.

It must also be a call to action.

For CSEA Members, workplace safety is not an abstract issue.

Every day, our Members serve their communities in demanding and sometimes dangerous jobs.

Every one of those Workers deserves the right to go home safely at the end of their shift.

Yet far too often, that doesn’t happen.

This past year alone, 10 CSEA Members tragically died while on the job and hundreds more were injured while doing the work our communities rely on every day.

Too often, these incidents are preventable.

They happen because of unsafe conditions, reckless behavior or protections that simply aren’t strong enough.

That should make every one of us angry.

It should make every one of us determined to do something about it.

CSEA is pushing for stronger Worker Safety Laws, including expanding workplace violence protections, increasing penalties for assaults on Public Employees and holding reckless drivers accountable when they endanger Workers in work zones.

Members can help by calling on Elected Officials to support stronger Workplace Safety Laws and by refusing to stay silent when something isn’t right.

But laws alone won’t keep Workers safe.

Real safety also depends on Members speaking up - reporting hazards, raising concerns about unsafe conditions and standing together to demand better protections.

The best way to honor the Workers we have lost is to keep fighting until every Worker can do their job safely and return home to their family.

When CSEA Members raise our voices together, we make workplaces safer for everyone.

To Directly Access This CSEA Statement, Go To: Mary E. Sullivan: Workers Memorial Day: A call to action - CSEA NY

Organized Labor 'Celebrates' New York City Mayor Mamdani's 'Veto Of A Buffer Zone Bill That Was Opposed' By Unions

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced he would veto a City Council Bill criticized by Unions representing Academic Workers that would have tasked the NYPD to erect “security perimeters” around Educational Facilities across New York City.

Intro 175-B's critics warned the Bill would stifle free speech and possibly affect the ability of Unions to picket and organize.

In a statement announcing his veto, Mamdani said the “problem” with the Bill is that it defines Educational Institutions too broadly as well as the “Constitutional concerns it raises regarding New Yorkers’ fundamental right to protest.”

“This could impact Workers protesting ICE or college students demanding their school divest from fossil fuels or demonstrating in support of Palestinian rights,” Mamdani said. “(Int. 175-B) is not a narrow public safety measure, it is a piece of legislation that has alarmed much of the Labor Movement, Reproductive Rights Groups and Immigration Advocates, among others, across this City. Nearly a dozen Unions have raised the alarm about its impact on their ability to organize.”

The Mayor added he would allow a similar law that applies to Houses of Worship, and that passed the Council by a much larger margin than the Bill on Educational Institutions, to come into effect.

Professional Staff Congress (PSC) of City of New York (CUNY) President James Davis, who was one of several outspoken Union Leaders opposing the Bill, praised Mamdani for vetoing the legislation: “Mayor Mamdani proved himself a champion of students, Faculty and Staff once again when he vetoed (Intro 175-B). This ‘Buffer Zone” Legislation would jeopardize First Amendment Rights to free expression for all New Yorkers irrespective of religion, race or nationality, imposing new restrictions near any vaguely defined ‘educational facilities.’ That includes CUNY Campuses, which are worksites and sites of political expression”

The PSC was one of more than 200 local groups to send a letter to Mamdani urging him to veto the legislation.

The City reported Labor Leaders from more than a half-dozen Unions and the New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council had met with City Hall Officials via video call to urge Mamdani to veto the Bill.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Mamdani vetoes buffer zone bill opposed by unions - The Chief

'Inside The Long Retreat' Of Workers' Compensation In New York State: 160,000 Injured New Yorkers 'Seek Workers' Compensation Each Year - But In Recent Years, Regulators Have Tilted The Scales Towards Employers & Insurers'

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Brook D’Angelo was driving to a distressed property in Niagara Falls, where she worked as a Neighborhood Inspector, when her City-owned car slammed downward into a deep sinkhole in an unpaved alley. The impact broke her lower back and ripped her abdominal wall. So, like some 160,000 injured New Yorkers each year, D’Angelo filed a claim in 2018 for New York State’s oldest guaranteed labor benefit: Workers’ Compensation. Every day counts with an injury like hers, but it took D’Angelo six months to find a doctor in the area willing to take on the hassle of getting paid through the State’s Workers’ Comp System. She had serious doubts about the surgeon she finally found but went ahead with treatment because she couldn’t find anyone else who accepted the benefit. The first surgery “butchered” D’Angelo, she said. It required three more surgeries and resulted in a 14-inch incision and the use of porcine dermal collagen - pig skin - to hold her abdomen together. Each attempt left her body with irreversible scar-like adhesions and left her unable to bear children. New York became the first State in the Nation to set up a Workers’ Compensation System in the wake of the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire. In the century since, the Social Insurance Program has covered medical bills and cash for recovery time for countless injured Construction Workers, Prison Guards, Nurses and other Workers. Yet - in recent years, the program’s benefits have quietly shrunk by over a third. From 2014 to 2023, the dollar amount of benefits insurers pay to Workers fell by $1.4 billion per year - a 37% drop, according to the latest available insurance data compiled by Economist James Parrott and shared with New York Focus. In that same period, Parrott calculated, insurers pocketed nearly $11 billion in profits. (Parrott is not related to this Reporter.)

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: Inside The Long Retreat of Workers’ Compensation in New York

State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli: 'Despite Third Straight Year Of State Workforce Expansion, OT Costs Increased By $1.6 Billion' In 2025 - Department Of Corrections 'Accounted For Over 87% Of Total Increase' In OT Earnings

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ALBANY, NEW YORK) - New York State Agency overtime costs increased 22.7% in 2025 for a total of $1.6 billion, while the number of overtime hours increased by 5.9%, or 1.4 million hours, higher than the previous year, according to the annual report issued by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli examining State agencies’ overtime and workforce trends. The size of the state workforce - not including the State University of New York and City University of New York, grew for a third straight year in 2025 increasing by 2.7%, or 4,139 positions, from 2024, to an average annual total of 155,448. “The use of overtime by State Agencies continued to climb with overtime as a share of payroll at its second highest rate since at least (2007),” DiNapoli said. “Agencies need to ensure usage is justified while continuing to safely and effectively provide the services New Yorkers expect and deserve.” Overtime hours and earnings have continued to surge at the State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (Corrections), growing by 1.3 million hours and $264 million in 2025, the most of any Agency. The Agency experienced a 29.8% decrease in workforce since 2020 when there were 8,544 more Employees than in 2025. Between 2024 and 2025, the Corrections Workforce decreased by over 2,700 while overtime hours per Employee grew 32.7% to reach an average of 432 hours - nearly triple what it was in 2020. These figures were influenced by the Strike by some Corrections employees that took place between February 17th, 2025 and March 10th, 2025.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: DiNapoli: Despite Third Straight Year of State Workforce Expansion, OT Costs Increased by $1.6 Billion in 2025 | Office of the New York State Comptroller

From NYSUT: Schools 'Work To Meet New Drinking Water Standards'

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ALBANY, NEW YORK) - Schools across New York State are working diligently to comply with new, more stringent lead standards that will make school drinking water even safer for students, educators and others who spend time in school buildings.

New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) Health and Safety has created: A fact sheet to help schools familiarize themselves with required sampling, remediation, reporting and record-keeping requirements; review State Department of Health’s (DOH) resources on the topic; and Recommit to ensuring their drinking water meets the State’s new, safer standards.

The fact sheet includes definitions of key terms, links to related DOH resources, and frequently asked questions on the topic.

Lead is a known toxin that has the potential to affect multiple organ systems in the body.

It can be especially harmful to children, whose neurological systems are still developing.

Elevated lead levels in children often stem from exposure to chipped or peeling lead paint, especially in older homes, but can also happen due to consumption of lead-contaminated water.

Lead gets into drinking water as lead pipes, fixtures, and the solder used to connect pipes corrode over time.

This is of greatest concern in older buildings - including schools - built before 1986, when the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act was amended to prohibit the use of materials in plumbing that were not “lead free.”

That amendment significantly decreased the risk of lead contamination in drinking water for new buildings, but it did not address the risk in existing buildings.

For that reason, schools across New York have long been required to test their drinking water regularly for lead.

Until recently, New York’s “action level” for lead in drinking water - the level at which a school is required to undertake remediation, including repair of pipes and fixtures - was 15 parts per billion (ppb), which aligned with Federal regulations for school drinking water.

In December 2022, New York revised the Public Health Law governing School Potable Water Standards and Testing to reduce the action level for lead from 15 ppb to 5 ppb.

Schools were required to test using the new threshold during a three-year compliance period that ended on December 22nd, 2025.

The updated law also removed previous exemptions for some buildings previously considered “lead free,” and instituted new requirements for reporting test results to the public and providing alternative water sources free of charge when drinking water outlets are taken out of service.

“Schools around the State are adjusting to these new regulations and the procedures and requirements that come along with them,” NYSUT Second Vice President Ron Gross, said. “Our Members are taking action to ensure their drinking water is safe for students and all who pass through their buildings. It’s beneficial for the whole school community.”

NYSUT’s Program Services Department is available to provide support to Members and answer questions that come up as they work through this important process, he added.

To Directly Access This Labor News Story, Go To: Schools work to meet new drinking water standards

NYSUT-Provided Graphic.

LanguageLine Interpreters Unionization Push Backed By New York City Lawmakers - Interpreters 'Cite Low Pay, High Stress & Deteriorating Service Conditions'

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – Carter Myers-Brown at The Chief reports on New York City LanguageLine Interpreters: When a patient walks into a New York City Hospital and doesn't speak English, or when a resident calls 911 in a language other than English, it falls to a LanguageLine Solutions Interpreter to bridge the gap. Now, many of these Interpreters are calling for their company to respect their right to Unionize - and they have found empathetic ears inside the New York City Council. The Communications Workers of America (CWA), which is supporting the organizing effort, and City Lawmakers are escalating pressure on LanguageLine Solutions and its parent company, Teleperformance, as the Interpreters point to new data revealing low pay, high stress and deteriorating service conditions. At a press conference held on the steps of City Hall earlier this month, Council Members joined Comptroller Mark Levine and LanguageLine Interpreters to call on the company to recognize Workers’ Organizing Rights and address workplace concerns. Officials also highlighted the formation of a Worker-led Health and Safety Committee, which Interpreters say is intended to formalize discussions with management over conditions affecting their work. LanguageLine Solutions provides telephonic interpretation for more than 30,000 clients worldwide, including New York City Agencies with more than $19 million in active contracts. Its Interpreters help ensure language access for roughly 1.79 million New Yorkers with limited English proficiency, facilitating communication in hospitals, courts and across City services.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: LanguageLine interpreters unionization push backed by lawmakers - The Chief

New York City 'Touts Nation-Leading' Hotel Worker & Consumer Protections

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – The New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) is focusing a spotlight on the suite of laws it enforces to protect consumers and Workers across City hotels as New York looks ahead to another busy year for tourism and hospitality. In a new Op-Ed in The Nation, DCWP Commissioner Sam Levine joined Hotel and Gaming Trades Council (HTC) President Rich Maroko to remind hotel operators of the City laws and rules that guarantee critical protections for Hotel Workers and consumers. The DCWP also issued compliance warnings to more than 760 licensed hotels citywide, notifying them of their obligations. With tens of millions of visitors to New York City each year, the DCWP is committed to strong enforcement of these standards to ensure the industry’s continued recovery from COVID-19 benefits Working People and businesses across the City. The DCWP also pledges to continue to enforce safety and transparency in the Hospitality Sector for Workers and consumers.

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To: DCWP Touts Nation-Leading Hotel Consumer and Worker Protections | City of New York

And To Learn More About Your Rights As Consumers And Workers At nyc.gov/dcwp.

Photo Courtesy Of The New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council.

The Amherst Compact: United University Professions 'Joins A Coalition Of More Than 50 Higher Ed Unions To Back First-Ever Higher Ed Union Contract Bargaining Priorities Pact'

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ALBANY, NEW YORK) - United University Professions (UUP) - America’s largest higher Education Union, is strongly supporting the Amherst Compact, a first-ever agreement by leaders of more than 50 Unions to coordinate bargaining priorities that raise the floor for Workers of all job categories across the most-densely Unionized Region of the country for Higher Education.

Higher Ed Unions from Maine to Pennsylvania are part of the Amherst Compact, which comes as UUP and three Rutgers University Unions are negotiating new contracts.

UUP’s Negotiations Team and New York State Representatives have been working on a new agreement since February.

The contract runs through July 1st.

The timing for the initiative is good - dozens of Higher Education Unions across nine Northeast States - Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania - will be negotiating new contracts over the next year.

“By standing together, Higher Education Unions can use their collective power to push for gains that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise,” UUP President Fred Kowal said. “A regional bargaining strategy can help raise the standards of employment for Unions out there negotiating new agreements. As a founding member of Higher Education Labor United, UUP believes in working together with our Union colleagues to help each other realize the best possible agreements we can negotiate for our Members.”

UUP Chief Negotiator Bret Benjamin said: “As UUP is at the bargaining table right now, it’s great to know that Higher Ed Unions across the Northeast are working in collaboration to set new standards for bargaining demands.”

The Amherst Compact was drafted in January at the Northeast Regional Bargaining Summit in Amherst, Massachusetts.

The summit was organized by Higher Education Labor United (HELU), a National Higher Ed Union Organization formed in 2021 to create and pursue a unified vision for Higher Education.

More than 225,000 Higher Ed and Allied Workers are affiliated with HELU through their Unions and organizations.

More than 50 Unions - representing Higher Ed Workers in jobs ranging from Food Service and Custodial Work to Doctors, Researchers, Academics and Professional Staff - attended the summit and voted to approve the Compact.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Press Release | UUP backs higher ed union contract bargaining priorities pact

Syracuse University Professors & Researchers 'Aim To Make' SU 'A Union Campus' - 'If' They Vote To Unionize, 'They Could Add Another 350 Union-Represented Workers To 4,000 Others Who Have Already Unionized'

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Eddie Velazquez at Central Current reports hundreds of Educators and Researchers that make up almost 20% of Syracuse University’s (SU) Faculty want to form a Union. The Union would include around 350 Postdoctoral Researchers, Teaching Professors, Professors of Practice and Research Professors, if a majority of those Workers vote to Unionize at an election on April 22nd and 23rd. They’re seeking transparency and fairness around contract renewals, more lenient contracts for International Faculty, more equitable pay and a say in how decisions in their workplace are made. Their Union drive comes at a time when University Administrators plan to cut or pause almost 100 academic programs in a move administrators have said is a re-alignment to accommodate student demand. If successful, Non-Tenure Track, Full-Time Workers would join the close to 4,000 Unionized Workers at SU. Some Workers say they see wall-to-wall Union Representation at SU as a way to collectively cope with uncertainty around research funding, a difficult job market, volatile changes to labor and Immigration Laws.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Another 350 workers at Syracuse University could unionize

Nation's 'First Deliverista Hub' Opens At New York City Hall

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – The Workers’ Justice Project-Los Deliveristas Unidos is celebrating a historic milestone for Delivery Worker Organizing in New York City with the launch of the City Hall Park Deliverista Hub - the first Worker-designed Hub of its kind in the Nation. Developed through organizing by App Delivery Workers and in partnership with City and Federal Leaders, the Hub provides critical infrastructure for New York City’s 80,000 App Delivery Workers, including safe e-bike battery charging, rest space, bike repair and access to Worker support services. The launch featured remarks from a number of Elected Leaders, including U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, City partner agencies and Organizers with Los Deliveristas Unidos. The opening marks an important step toward improving safety, supporting Worker-led innovation and advancing sustainable last-mile delivery across the City.

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To: Schumer Thanks Mamdani as Deliverista Hub Finally Opens

Photo Collage Courtesy Of The New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council.

Union-Represented Long Island Rail Road Workers Warn Of 'Disaster' If They Go On Strike Next Month - Meanwhile, Unionized Subway & Bus Operators In New York City 'Kick Off' Negotiations On A New Contract

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) Workers could go on Strike as early as May 16th if they cannot reach a deal. During a press conference held last week - Kevin Sexton, who serves as the National Vice President of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), said Workers would walk off the job on May 16th if they don’t reach a new contract with the Transit Agency. Sexton said a Strike would halt service on the country’s busiest commuter railroad, which “would be a disaster for Long Island.” “No one wants a Strike,” he said. “Our friends, our families, our neighbors, our communities rely on this system.” Workers want a retroactive 9.5% wage increase that covers the past three years. They also want an additional 5% raise - starting this year. LIRR Workers last went on Strike in 1994. The Federal Government can prevent a work stoppage, but Congress did not intervene last year when New Jersey Transit Workers went on Strike. Meanwhile, contract talks with Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 100, which represents Subway and Bus Operators, are getting underway. Negotiations officially began late last week with an exchange of demands at the Union's Brooklyn headquarters. Union Leaders say rising costs and workplace conditions will be the center of discussions.

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To: LIRR workers, TWU 100 could go on strike next month if they cannot reach a deal - ABC7 New York

And

LIRR workers warn of 'disaster for Long Island' as they prepare to strike in May - Gothamist

NYSNA Nurses At Elizabethtown 'Overwhelmingly Ratify' Contract Agreement 'That Delivers Good Health Benefits For Nurses'

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ELIZABETHTOWN, NEW YORK) – New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA)-represented Nurses employed at the University of Vermont (UVM)-Elizabethtown Community Hospital have voted to overwhelmingly ratify a new contract after bargaining for months.

UVM-Elizabethtown Nurses fought for a fair contract that maintains Safe Staffing Standards and secures respectful wages and benefits to recruit and retain Nurses, Union Officials said.

NYSNA Nurses also secured access to the NYSNA Benefit Fund, which will deliver better and more affordable health benefits to Nurses.

NYSNA Nurses at Adirondack Medical Center, the last North Country Hospital represented by NYSNA without the Benefit Fund, continue to fight for strong Union benefits.

Highlights of the contract include: Safe Staffing Standards maintained; Entrance into the NYSNA Benefit Fund starting January 1st, 2027; Wage increases of $3 an hour as an immediate market adjustment, plus yearly wage increases of 3%; and Additional pay incentives to maintain safe staffing and encourage Nurse retention.

NYSNA President Nancy Hagans said, “We are so proud of our North Country Nurses who continue to improve health care in their communities while raising standards for Nurses. Over the last few months, Nurses have held speak-outs and raised their voices to bring attention to the crisis of care in the region. Improving care for our communities also requires ensuring Nurses receive wages and benefits that respect their work and ensure that Nurses can continue to do the work they do best. This contract shows that when NYSNA Nurses fight, we win!”

NYSNA represents more than 42,000 Members across the State and is New York’s largest Union and Professional Association for Registered Nurses.

NYSNA is an affiliate of National Nurses United (NNU), the country's largest and fastest-growing Union and Professional Association of Registered Nurses, with more than 225,000 Members nationwide.

To Read This Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: NYSNA Nurses at Elizabethtown Overwhelmingly Ratify Contract Agreement that Delivers Good Health Benefits for Nurses | New York State Nurses Association

New York City District Council Of Carpenters Rally At Vanderbilt University Construction Site In Manhattan 'To Put Pressure On' Project Developer 'To Ensure Workers Are Paid Standard Wages'

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – The New York City District Council of Carpenters rallied at a high-profile construction site tied to Vanderbilt University in Manhattan’s Chelsea Neighborhood, calling on the project’s developer to ensure workers are paid standard wages.

The Carpenters gathered at the site to protest what they described as sub-standard pay and benefits provided by General Contractor Gotham Drywall, warning such practices could undermine wage standards across the City’s Construction Industry.

The demonstration drew support from several local Elected Officials - including Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal, Assembly Member Alex Bores and City Council Member Erik Bottcher, along with Labor Advocates and representatives from the New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council.

At the center of the dispute is Gotham Drywall, which Union Leaders allege is compensating Workers below established area standards.

Union Officials argue such practices not only impact Workers on the project - but also creates downward pressure on wages industry-wide.

Union Members emphasized that maintaining area standard wages is critical to preserving fair compensation, benefits and working conditions in one of the Nation’s largest construction markets.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: NYC Carpenters Rally at Vanderbilt Site Over Pay Dispute

Photo Collage Courtesy Of The New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council.

Faculty 'Fight Anti-Union Tactics' At St. John's University - University Administrators 'Abruptly Cancel' Labor Negotiations, 'Pushing Faculty To Scale Up' Actions

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(JAMAICA, QUEENS) - Sixty-two years ago, St. John’s University (SJU) in New York City became the site of the first major Faculty Strike in U.S. History - a year-long conflict that followed the firing of 33 Teachers, including three Priests, without due process.

Now, the struggle over labor conditions has forced the Faculty to once again mobilize, a move precipitated by the current College Administration’s abrupt announcement that it will no longer recognize two Faculty Unions or continue negotiations to hash out a new contract.

St. John’s President, the Reverend Brian J. Shanley, and Provost and Senior Vice President Simon Geir Møller, told the National Catholic Reporter the move was necessary to give the college “the flexibility required to innovate and deliver on our promise to our students.”

But Faculty Members, who had been demanding improved wages and greater transparency in how their share of health insurance premiums are calculated, call it Union Busting.

Sophie Bell, acting President of the Campus American Association of University Professors (AAUP) Chapter, says the Union was surprised by the February suspension of bargaining and the decision to end Union Recognition, telling Truthout: “This was my second time bargaining for a contract and in the earlier negotiation I felt like management was a real partner at the bargaining table. This time it felt different and I got the impression that Shanley does not want a Union.”

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: Faculty Fight Anti-Union Tactics at St. John’s University in New York | Truthout

'After Tragedy & Survival,' CSEA Members 'Call For Greater' Roadside Safety

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(COMMACK, NEW YORK) – The Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) has thousands of Members working in positions that require them to work in dangerous outdoor environments, leaving them vulnerable to reckless drivers.

CSEA Department of Transportation (Babylon) Local Vice President Randy Acum and CSEA Nassau County Local Crossing Guard John Miro were both struck by impaired drivers, sending them to the hospital with serious injuries.

Sadly, Miro later died.

Miro was performing his duties when an impaired driver sped through a road crossing, striking him with a pickup truck.

Miro, who was 70, held on for a week before passing away.

“Nassau County Crossing Guards work for the Police Department, so we’re setting up meetings with them to discuss what we can do to improve safety for the Crossing Guards,” CSEA Nassau Local President Kris Kalender said.

The Nassau County Local has been working with Project Thank a Cop and a local diner to provide donated meals to the Miro Family during their time of grief.

To thank the Doctors and Nurses where Miro received care, the Miro Family asked that at least one of their meals be delivered to the hospital.

For his funeral, Miro received many of the same ceremonial observances as a First Responder, although the Family’s modesty prevented them from accepting all the traditional formalities.

When Acum received a call from local Police asking for the DOT’s help closing the road and detouring traffic away from the site of a drunk driving crash, he quickly assembled a crew.

While Acum was at the back of the DOT truck checking to see that the blinking arrow and the “Move Over” sign were on, he was hit by another drunk driver.

Acum recalled that his head hit the windshield, and he was thrown forward about 30 to 40 feet, maybe more.

Luckily, two Officers conducting an investigation of the previous accident spotted Acum, pulled him to the road shoulder and performed CPR.

Soon after, an ambulance rushed Acum to the hospital, where he was whisked into surgery.

“Had everyone not acted so quickly, I don’t know if I would have made it,” Acum said.

The hours that followed were traumatic for Acum, his Family, and his colleagues.

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief when they were told that he was alive and made it through surgery successfully.

Acum was released from the hospital almost two weeks later.

He was surprised to find his fellow DOT Local Members lining the hospital exit, clapping and cheering as a Nurse - who is also a CSEA Member, escorted him to his car.

As a sign of respect, Acum received a police escort home.

“This is the beginning of what will be months and months of OT (Occupational Therapy) and PT (Physical Therapy),” Acum said. “I’ll need to strengthen my body to walk and use my right arm again. There could be some other issues going forward, but we’ll see what happens.”

CSEA has consistently been in contact with the Governor’s Office to improve safety for Road Workers, but true safety is contingent on the cooperation of the public.

“People aren’t following the rules of the road,” Acum said. “They’re speeding or driving on the shoulder or through our work zones. People need to take accountability for what they do behind the wheel. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of others around you.”

To Directly Access This Labor News Story, Go To: After tragedy and survival, CSEA members call for greater roadside safety - CSEA NY

More Than 760 Fast Food & Retail Workers To Receive $1.8 Million In Settlements For Their Employers 'Violating New York City's Fair Workweek Law'

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - A Franchisee operating Taco Bell and Dunkin’ locations in New York City will pay $1.5 million in restitution to more than 760 Workers under a settlement reached with the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) for violations of the City’s Fair Workweek Law.

On a livestream filmed inside City Hall while lunching on Crunchwrap Supremes, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and DCWP Commissioner Sam Levine said the Franchisee Salz Management LLC violated the rights of Workers across 24 Dunkin’ and Taco Bell locations in Manhattan and Queens by failing to provide Workers with schedules 14 days in advance and failing obtain consent for schedule changes.

“The Workers didn't have predictable schedules,” Levine said. “They were forced to close the store, then open it the next day without compensation. That's why we're getting money back in their pockets.”

As part of a second Fair Workweek settlement reached by DCWP that was announced by the duo, more than 60 Workers at two Manhattan locations of the Fashion Retailer Theory LLC will receive more than $277,00.

The Franchisee and Fashion Retailer will also pay $176,000 in civil penalties directly to the City for legal violations.

Individual payments for some Workers covered by the settlements, Mamdani said, will be over $10,000.

“Too often, there are Workers who are either not informed of these protections, or it is made clear to them that were they to use these protections, they would face retaliation,” the Mayor said. “And that is illegal under the law here in New York City. And we don't just pass laws and sign them. We also enforce them.”

Since Mamdani took office at the beginning of the year, the DCWP has secured more than $8.5 million in restitution for workers in New York City, including $5 million for more than 49,000 wrongfully-deactivated Delivery Workers and $500,000 for late payments to 350 Freelancers.

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To: Fast food, retail workers to receive $1.8 million in from settlements - The Chief

New York City 'Faces Possible Strike by 34,000 Doormen & Building Workers' - Union Calls Realty Advisory Board's Contract Proposal 'Insulting'

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Michelle Kaske at Bloomberg News reports New York City apartment residents are being put on notice of a potential Strike by Unionized Building Staff as soon as next month as the Union representing the Workers and an Advisory Board to building owners negotiate a new contract. Property owners are alerting occupants of 3,500 co-ops, condos and apartment buildings that services will decrease if a work suspension begins on April 21st. That’s the day after the four-year-old contract expires for nearly 34,000 Doormen, Porters and Maintenance Workers. If there’s a Strike, residents will need to wear badges to enter buildings.

And from The Brooklyn Daily Eagle: the Union that represents 34,000 Superintendents, Maintenance Workers, Front Desk Staff and Resident Managers in most of New York City’s residential buildings says it is preparing for a Strike after receiving “insulting” contract changes from the Realty Advisory Board (RAB) on Labor Relations, which represents building owners. According to a release from 32BJ Service Employees International Union (SEIU), the RAB’s proposals include: Shifting the cost of health care onto Workers via premium sharing; The introduction of a lower-paid Tier II Workforce; The expansion of Temp Workers; The weakening of contract enforcement; and The lack of a commitment to pension improvements. The Union points out the Real Estate Industry is enjoying “record high rents, high property values and historic low vacancy rates.” The current four-year master contract agreement between the Union and building owners expires on April 20th. A Strike would affect roughly 600,000 New York City households, according to 32BJ SEIU.

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To: NYC Faces Possible Strike by 34,000 Doormen, Building Workers And NYC’s residential building workers call contract offer ‘insulting’

Graphic Courtesy Of 32BJ SEIU’s Facebook Page.

Unionized New York University Professors Reach Tentative Contract Deal That Ends Two-Day Strike - Contract Secures First-Year Raise of 20% For 930 Faculty Members

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

George Weykamp at Bloomberg Law reports more than 900 Non-Tenure Track Professors have reached a tentative contract with New York University (NYU), ending a brief work-stoppage that affected roughly half of NYU’s Full-Time Faculty. The Contract Faculty United-United Auto Workers (CFU-UAW), which represents about 930 Faculty Members who aren’t eligible for tenure, said the Bargaining Committee has secured an average first-year raise of 20%. CFU-UAW Members teach about 25% of all classes across NYU, according to the University. The Faculty Members walked off the job on March 23rd, asking for higher wages and housing benefits to offset the cost of living in New York City. According to the CFU-UAW, its agreement includes “historic economic improvements and establishes important new workplace right for all Contract Faculty.” “It not only improves our lives as Faculty, but also makes NYUY a more equitable, stronger and freer University,” the Union said in a statement on its website.

For More On This Labor News Story & A Breakdown Of Bargained Items, Go To: New York University Professors Reach Deal to End Two-Day Strike And CFU-UAW Tentative Agreement Highlights | NYU Contract Faculty United, CFU-UAW

'1 IN 5' - New NYSUT Film 'Confronts Childhood Poverty In New York'

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

A student in Ilion missed school for a week. When he finally returned to class, he explained he hadn’t had access to a washing machine and he couldn’t come to school in dirty clothes.

Another student - a 9-year-old in Rochester - missed school because he felt the need to stay home to protect his Mother in a house with no locks.

These are just two of the stories captured in 1 IN 5, a new long-form New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) film about the devastating impact of childhood poverty in New York State.

New York is one of the wealthiest regions in the world, a global leader in industry, finance and innovation - yet, one in five Children in our State lives in poverty, meaning more than 760,000 students aren’t getting their basic needs met.   

And the number of families living in poverty in New York has grown 10% since 2010, while the number struggling to make ends meet has grown even faster, at 21%.

Every day, Educators see first-hand how unmet basic needs keep their students from thriving, and NYSUT’s timely film - which took a year to complete and includes the voices of Educators, parents and advocates - explores the stark reality these students face in rural, suburban and urban communities.

In the film, Music Teacher Zachary Arenz, a Member of Rochester Teachers Association, talks about how what happens to students at home bleeds into their academic life, and keeps them from reaching their full potential: “I’m honored to have had even a small part in this project. (1 IN 5) reflects what educators are seeing every day: Students’ academic success is often tied to their lived experiences and that meaningful change will require partnership between schools, families and policymakers.”

The film also captures the perspectives of Teachers at Syracuse STEM at Blodgett Middle School where 95% of students live below the poverty line.

Syracuse has the worst childhood poverty rate in the U.S. among larger cities.

“I feel like subconsciously our kids deal with, ‘I’m not meant to be here. I’m not loved. No one really cares about me,’” said Leeza Roper, an ELA Teacher and Member of Syracuse Teachers Association.

The film also shows to what lengths dedicated Educators are going every day to help address poverty’s effects on their students, including clothing closets, coat drives, food distribution programs, back-pack programs and more.

Finally, the film introduces some of the most promising policies for addressing this issue, including Community Schools, which have proven to be remarkably successful when it comes to improving student outcomes.

“One of the most effective tools we have is the Community Schools model (which) serve as vital hubs, providing wraparound services that support family health, community safety and children's needs,” NYSUT President Melinda Person said.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: New NYSUT film confronts childhood poverty in New York

To Watch The Film, Go To: 1 in 5: Confronting Childhood Poverty in New York

Nitehawk Cinema Workers Rally For First Contract - Part Of A Wave Of Unionization At New York City Theaters

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - Hilal Bahctepe at The Chief reports that since Unionizing in 2024, Employees at the Nitehawk Cinema’s Prospect Park Branch have been bargaining for a first contract that would increase Worker safety conditions, hourly pay and health care benefits - concerns which have yet to be met by management. Last week, Nitehawk Workers gathered in front of the theater’s Prospect Park location to demand attention to the contract, which Workers argue has been at a standstill for almost two years due to stalling and bad faith negotiating on part of the owners. “They do the legal bare minimum,” said Lydia DeKok, a Nitehawk Bartender and one of the original Union Organizers who began working at the Independent Cinema Chain in 2024. “Some of the biggest things that we’ve been asking for since the beginning are substantial hourly raises for everyone in the building. Our boss's reaction to that was that we were trying to bankrupt him.” Nitehawk Prospect Park Workers are represented by United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 2179, which also represents Workers at Alamo Drafthouse and Cinema Village, local Cinemas that have been part of the surge in Unionizing over similar workplace concerns in local Movie Theaters within the past couple of years.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Nitehawk Cinema workers rally for first contract - The Chief

'Ain't I A Woman?' - Homecare Workers 'Pressure' Governor Hochul & The New York City Council 'To End The 24-Hour Workday'

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - On International Women’s Day, Homecare Workers took to New York City Hall to pressure Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York City Council to pass the No More 24 Bill, which would abolish the 24-hour workday and force employers to repay $90 million in stolen wages.

The proposal was introduced to the Council in 2024, though it has since sat in the Committee on Civil Service and Labor unaddressed until this past December.

The language of the Bill would limit the total hours an employer can assign to a Worker for one shift to 12 hours - while leaving room for exceptions and emergencies.

Homecare Workers are often assigned to patients who need “around-the-clock care,” resulting in assigned 24-hour shifts without notice or consent from an aide.

Workers are only compensated for 12 to 13 of these hours, the remaining 11 considered “time off” for sleep and meals.

Mostly middle-aged or elderly themselves, these Workers - mostly Women - spend these consecutive hours doing back-breaking physical labor in a high-stress health care environment.

The struggle to end the 24-hour workday is led by the Ain’t I A Woman? Campaign (AIW), Youth Against Sweatshops (YAS and the National Mobilization Against Sweatshops (NMASS).

The movement they constitute began its fight more than 10 years ago, with three Home Attendants filing a Class-Action Lawsuit in 2015 which alleged their employer - the Chinese American Planning Council, failed “to pay them under the New York Labor Law: Minimum wages; Overtime wages; Spread-of-hours wages; and Straight time wages, among other claims.

For More On This Labor News Report, Go To: Homecare workers pressure Hochul and Mamdani to end 24-hour workday – People's World

Photo Courtesy Of The Ain’t I A Woman Campaign Via Facebook.

Organized Labor 'Joins Allies To Demand Workers Receive A $30-An-Hour Minimum Wage As The Cost-Of-Living Surges' In New York City

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) – Carter Myers-Brown at The Chief reports Labor Leaders, Elected Officials and Community Advocates recently gathered on the steps of New York City Hall to launch the $30 For Our City Campaign, backing legislation that would gradually raise the City’s Minimum Wage to $30 an hour. The Bill would nearly double the City’s current $17 hourly minimum and phase in the increase over several years, reaching $30 by 2030 for large employers. Supporters say the proposal is a response to the City’s worsening affordability crisis, arguing wages have failed to keep pace with the cost of living: “Costs are up and wages are down, pushing New Yorkers out of our City. Earning the minimum wage shouldn’t mean living in poverty.” The push has drawn support from a broad coalition - including The Alliance for a Greater New York (ALIGN), the Amazon Labor Union, Make the Road New York, New York Communities for Change, Teamsters Local 804 and the Workers Justice Project, along with several City Council Members. Under the proposal, companies with more than 500 Employees would be required to pay Workers at least $20 an hour by 2027 and reach $30 by 2030. Smaller employers would follow a slightly slower schedule, paying $21.50 by 2028 and reaching $30 by 2032. Future increases would then be tied to Cost-Of-Living Adjustments.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: Workers demand $30 minimum wage as cost of living surges in NYC - The Chief

Westchester Construction Boss 'Convicted Of Scamming Workers Is Re-Arrested For $50,000 In Wage Theft'

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Amir Khafagy at Documented reports a Westchester contractor, exposed by Documented for continuing to operate his construction business despite a conviction for stealing thousands from Immigrant Workers, has been arrested again on new wage theft charges. Artemio Fuerte, 40, was arrested for allegedly stealing $51,720 in wages from five Employees between 2022 and 2025. Fuerte was re-arrested on March 3rd and charged at New Rochelle City Court on one count each of second-degree grand larceny - which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, and first-degree scheme to defraud - which carries a maximum of four years in prison. He was also charged with five counts of Failure to Pay Wages When Due Under Labor Law. District Attorney Susan Cacace said: “These hard-working employees were taken advantage of by the defendant to the tune of over ($50,000). Deliberately withholding wages from your employees is not a book-keeping trick, it is a crime. I stand with the Labor Community in demanding that all Workers in Westchester be paid fairly, in accordance with the Labor Law.”

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: Construction Boss Convicted of Scamming Workers is Rearrested for $50,000 in Wage Theft - Documented

March Madness! Faculty Unions Hold 'Hands Off St. John's' Rally Outside Madison Square Garden

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Last week, the St. John’s University (SJU) American Association of University Professors (AAUP) Chapter - along with students, allies in the Labor Movement including the New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council, Political Candidates and Religious Leaders - kicked off the SJU’s Men’s Basketball Team’s participation in the Big East March Madness Tournament by demanding Father Shanley get back to the bargaining table, because Union-Busting is a flagrant foul. The rally was held outside Madison Square Garden, site of the Big East Tournament. Speakers called on the University Administration to reverse its decision to end recognition of its two Unions that were formed in 1970 - the SJU-AAUP and the Faculty Association (FA) - and to return to negotiations. Faculty Members warned the move threatens decades of collective bargaining at the University and undermines the rights and working conditions of the Educators who teach and mentor St. John’s students. The rally was part of an ongoing campaign by Unionized Faculty and their supporters to defend the Unions and push the Administration back to the bargaining table.

For More On This Labor News Report & To Watch Video Labor News Coverage Of This Event, Go To The AAUP’s Facebook Page.

Photo Courtesy Of the AAUP’s Facebook Page.

American Federation Of Musicians Members 'Rally With Live Music' In Times Square, 'Fighting To Prevent Artificial Intelligence From Stealing Musicians' Creativity'

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - The American Federation of Musicians (AFM) and AFM Local 802 held a solidarity rally with live music in Times Square this week, demonstrating a unified front as the second round of negotiations for the AFM's Sound Recording Labor Agreement resumed with Record Labels - including Sony, Universal, Hollywood Records and Warner. The Union’s top demands include fair wages and preventing Artificial Intelligence (AI) from stealing Musicians’ creativity. In addition to AFM International President Tino Gagliardi and Local 802 President Dan Point, speakers included U.S. Congressman Jerry Nadler, Actors' Equity Executive Director Al Vincent Jr., Writers Guild of America (WGA) East Secretary-Treasurer Sasha Stewart and other Union Officials and Musicians. Live music was provided by Five Borough Brass by Local 802 Musicians, performing with a Union contract. Local 802 President Point said: "Musicians are leading the fight for fair wages, health care, retirement benefits, protection against AI theft, and - most important of all, a voice at the table. We demand consent, compensation and credit when AI is trained on our creative work. If AI learns, we should earn!”

AFM Musicians Are Asking The Public To Sign Their Petition Here!

'Awaiting Impending' Layoffs & Program Cuts, Union-Represented New School Faculty & Staff 'Rally With Students Against Austerity Measures'

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(NEW YORK CITY) - In response to drastic cuts at The New School, University students, Faculty and Staff recently marched down West 12th Street to hand deliver a gigantic letter and petition addressed to University President Joel Towers that was signed by more than 1,650 people and read, in part: “While the President’s Office characterizes this as a ‘transparent’ process of ‘restructuring,’ the reality for Workers and students has been much different: Vague promises, few details, closed-door meetings and unannounced changes - including course cancellations, planned cuts to student medical services and other austerity measures. None of these changes serve the needs of any part of our community, but instead harm students and place Management’s financial burden on vulnerable members of the University’s workforce."

The New School cuts include goals to slash student medical services, fire Health Workers and merge and cancel several courses, majors and programs. They also include the elimination of 20% of Full-Time Faculty and both Union and Non-Union Staff by the end of the academic year.

As part of those reductions, last November, University leadership sent 169 Full-Time Faculty and Non-Unionized Staff a voluntary separation and early retirement package offer, demanding a response in less than two weeks.

The accepted offers didn’t match the School’s target, so Workers are now waiting for further layoffs along with other austerity measures to meet the School’s budget hole of $48 million, according to United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 7902, which represents hundreds of Workers at The New School.

“Show us what you're up to because we keep getting surprises,” Raha Rafii, a Part-Time Faculty Member at The New School said during the rally. “We want true transparency. Why should we believe that the only way to manage this budget deficit is to get rid of the most vulnerable members in the University?”

To Directly Access This Labor News Story, Go To: New School faculty, students and staff rally against austerity measures - The Chief

New York Union Leaders 'Push For Tier 6 Pension Reforms At A Massive Rally 'Held Inside Albany's MVP Arena 'That Draws 15,000 Public Sector Workers From Across The State'

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

(ALBANY, NEW YORK) – Governor Kathy Hochul joined an array of Labor Leaders and Public Sector Workers at MVP Arena in Albany on Sunday (March 8th) to push for changes to New York’s Tier 6 Pension System, saying reforms are needed to help recruit and retain Public Workers.

Union Members and a variety of Public Workers participated in the rally - which some estimated was as high as 15,000 who came from across the State, as part of the Fix Tier 6 Campaign, which argues the current pension structure makes careers in public service less attractive.

New York’s Labor Movement came together on an extraordinary scale at the MVP Arena.

Union speakers included: New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento; New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) President Melinda Person, President; American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten; Public Employees Federation (PEF) President Wayne Spence; New York State Professional Firefighters Association President Sam Fresina; Actress Lisa Ann Walter, the star of ABC TV’s Abbott Elementary and Vice President of the Los Angeles Local of SAG-AFTRA, United Federation of Teachers (UFT) President Michael Mulgrew; New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA) President Pat Kane, to name a few.

Their message was clear to State Lawmakers: Fix Tier 6 now - and restore fairness to the State’s Pension System.

Union Leaders say roughly 780,000 Public Workers are currently enrolled in Tier 6, which requires Employees to work longer, contribute more from each paycheck and receive smaller retirement benefits than Workers in earlier Pension Tiers.

The retirement requirements are very different: Tier 6 Members must work until age 63 or complete up to 40 years of service to avoid penalties - while Tier 4 Members can retire at age 55 with 30 years of service.

The blatant inequity is unsustainable, they said, as Tier 6 is fueling workforce shortages across Education, Public Safety, Health Care and other essential services by driving young, talented professionals away from public service careers and pushing experienced Workers out.

Every Worker deserves a dignified retirement, the Union speakers said, and if Tier 6 is not fixed now, New York risks losing its ability to attract and keep the talented Public Servants our communities depend on.

Governor Hochul said the differences have made it harder for Schools, Hospitals and Government Agencies to hire workers: “You told us you were struggling to recruit nurses and teachers and other hardworking individuals, and we listened. We have to make some changes.”

Hochul is proposing several reforms, including reducing the vesting period from 10 years to five years and changing how retirement benefits are calculated by averaging a Worker’s three highest consecutive years of salary instead of five.

Hochul said the changes would create a fairer Pension System and help encourage more people to pursue careers in public service.

Supporters say the reforms could help address staffing shortages in education and other Public Sector jobs across New York.

The proposals still need approval from State Lawmakers as budget negotiations continue in Albany.

Albany Mayor Dorcey Applyrs, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie also spoke at the rally.

For More On This Labor News Story, Go To The Following:

Union leaders push for Tier 6 pension reforms - WNYT.com NewsChannel 13

Fix Tier 6 rally draws thousands as debate over NY's pension system continues

Thousands rally at MVP Arena, urging lawmakers to fix New York’s Tier 6 pensions

Environmental Experts 'Throw Support Behind State University Of New York's (SUNY) College of Environmental Science and Forestry - In Virtual Forum'

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500

(ALBANY, NEW YORK) - National Wildlife Federation President and CEO Collin O’Mara and a panel of Environmental Leaders are calling for major expansion of State University of New York’s (SUNY) College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) to allow the College to grow enrollment and expand programming.

Panelists lauded ESF’s research and mission to train future Environmentalists at the virtual discussion - titled Anti-Science, the Environmental Crises and the Crucial Role of ESF, that was attended by more than 250 people.

In an increasingly volatile political climate where climate change is considered a hoax, proven scientific findings are attacked, rejected or ignored and science research funding is routinely slashed, SUNY’s College of Environmental Science and Forestry remains a national leader in developing renewable technologies, building a sustainable future and training the next generation of Green Leaders.

How the small-but-mighty Syracuse-based College navigated these and other challenges that was part of a 90-minute virtual discussion featuring a panel of Environmental heavyweights who strongly supported ESF, lauded the ground-breaking research being done there and urged State Leaders to significantly invest in the Campus to allow it to expand and thrive.

The event, moderated by United University Professions (UUP) President Fred Kowal, was co-sponsored by UUP - America’s largest Higher Education Union and the National Wildlife Federation.

Said Kowal: “ESF is one of the Nation’s leading Environmental Colleges because of the unique, ground-breaking work that’s being done there. At ESF, Researchers have made significant contributions in fields such as Bio-Energy, Bio-Technology, Ecology and Aquatic Ecosystems. The work being done there is unparalleled. ESF also educates the workforce that will navigate climate change challenges we now face and will face in the future. With a Federal Administration that scoffs at science, now is the time for New York State to strongly invest in ESF to ensure a sustainable future.”

To Read This Labor News Report In Its Entirety, Go To: Press Release | Environmental experts throw support behind SUNY ESF in virtual forum

Unions 'Back Tax The Rich Campaign' - 'Reason Increasing Levy On Richest Nyers & Corporations Could Fund Childcare, Tier 6 Reform'

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500

(NEW YORK CITY) - Hundreds of Workers flocked to Albany last week for the latest step in an effort to convince State Lawmakers, particularly Governor Kathy Hochul, to raise taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers.

The Tax The Rich Campaign is backed by a number of Unions, and of the over 1,500 who attended the rally and march in Albany, many were Union Members.

Ryan Bruckenthal, a Manhattan teacher and United Federation of Teachers (UFT) Member who traveled to Albany, said the campaign could be successful if Working-Class New Yorkers “keep pressure on the Governor and the State Government.”

"It's very clear we have a lot of people in our state who are more than capable of paying their fair share to make sure that everyone who lives here can have a beautiful and dignified life,” said Bruckenthal, a UFT Chapter Leader. “We need to find the revenue to get our people the things they need.”

The Tax The Rich Campaign, backed by the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA), the Communication Workers of America (CWA), the Professional Staff Congress (PSC), United Auto Workers (UAW) Region 9A, the New York Taxi Workers Alliance - and more, focuses on lobbying Lawmakers to pass three Taxation Bills.

The Fair Share Act would grant City Lawmakers the ability to impose an additional 2% income tax on New Yorkers earning more than $1 million.

A second Bill would increase the tax rate on large corporations - and a third, which has the most State Senate and State Assembly Co-Sponsors of the three, would create new State Income Tax Brackets for New Yorkers earning more than $1 million.

Taken together, these initiatives could raise around $30 billion for the state each year.

That revenue could be crucial for the ambitious plans New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has drawn up to create a Universal Childcare Program citywide, make buses in the City fast and free and increase funding to many City Agencies.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: Unions back Tax The Rich campaign - The Chief

1199 SEIU-Represented Nursing Home Workers Employed At The Rochester Regional's Unity Living Center Are Back At The Bargaining Table 'Following A Unanimous Vote To Authorize A Picket'

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500

(ROCHESTER, NEW YORK) - Caregivers employed at Rochester Regional’s Unity Living Center have returned to bargaining after the Union-represented Workers unanimously voted to authorize their Member-led Bargaining Committee to issue a 10-day notice to picket if a settlement cannot be reached soon.

The contract covering more than 110 1199 Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Healthcare Workers East-represented Workers expired on July 31st (2025).

Caregivers are fighting for competitive wages to help recruit and retain Workers, a staffing incentive bonus, and Preceptor Pay - and demanding their employer provide a staffing incentive bonus when Units are working with a 50% vacancy rate.

A staffing incentive bonus could be triggered to ensure those Units maintain adequate staffing ratios, avoiding Staff burnout and increasing retention rates, Union Officials say.

Workers say Preceptor Pay is key in the contract talks.

Preceptor Pay provides Staff a wage increase for training newly-hired Employees into vacant positions.

The Unity Living Center in Rochester Caregivers work as Certified Nursing Assistants, Licensed Practical Nurses, Activity Aides, Unit Secretaries and Physical Therapy Aides.

LPN Kiara Grey-Bradley said: “We’ve been negotiating since August and management refuses to address staffing, fair pay and childcare support. When Nursing Staff are stretched thin, we are over-worked and under-paid. Recently, we had no Certified Nurse Assistant on our Specialty Unit and we were left to pass pills, do meals, provide care and do wound care. This is too much work and this is unfair. We’re standing up for our residents just as much as ourselves. The community trusts us with their loved ones. We’re asking our employer to give us the resources to care for our residents with dignity.”

To Continue Reading This Labor News Story, Go To: Nursing Home Workers Set To Return To Bargaining Following Unanimous Vote To Authorize Picket :: 1199SEIU

NewsGuild Of New York-Represented Editorial Staff At Fortune Magazine 'Win Historic Contract' That Includes A 11% Wage Increase Over The Life Of The Three-Year Deal, Salary Floors 'That Lift Lowest-Paid' Workers & 'Just Cause' Job Protections

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

(NEW YORK CITY) – Unionized Editorial Staff at Fortune have won their first contract for both Digital and Print Employees, a deal that lifts wages a total of 11% for the life of the deal, sets new salary standards, provides job security protections and more.

The Fortune Union, which represents nearly two dozen Writers, Reporters, Producers, Editors and Artists, unanimously ratified the agreement that now covers both the remaining Print Employees carried over from Fortune’s former ownership under Time Inc., as well as the Digital Employees who organized in 2019.

“We are so excited to finally have a fair contract after a long battle,” said Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune Union’s Unit Chair. “Our Union has repeatedly come together in tough times - including after a mass layoff over the Summer reduced our Unit size by one-third - to fight for the well-being of our newsroom. The efforts to secure this contract were no exception.”

Highlights from the deal include:

Salary and Wages: A $4,000 signing bonus; Annual wage increases of 5% in the first year and 3% in the second and third years; Salary floors in five classifications now range from $68,000 to $130,000; Overtime pay for Members working extra hours; and the Company matches guarantees for the 401(k) plan.

Job Security: “Just cause” protection, which mandates that the company must provide a valid reason for termination, such as serious misconduct or repeated violations of company policies; Fortune will also be required to follow an obligatory progressive-discipline process before firing an Employee in cases where an Employee’s behavior does not require immediate removal; Members are guaranteed severance in the event of layoffs; and Restrictions are also placed on temporary Employees, fellows and interns to ensure Members’ work is protected - and other Workers cannot replace Members while getting paid less.

Editorial Standards Protections: Members are given authority to object “in good faith” to their names being placed next to an article that they have disagreements with; and Protections against being asked to complete “branded content” or “commercial writing” work.

The contract is the culmination of a multi-year campaign, which includes a 24-hour work stoppage in March 2021, a conference Strike threat in August 2021, and a September 2023 lunch-out, among multiple other collective actions.

NewsGuild of New York President Susan DeCarava said: “Our Fortune Union Members refused to give up and accept less than they are worth. Because they persevered, they won a contract that boosts wages for all and lifts salaries for the lowest paid across the Union, along with important job protections like just cause. We say this all the time in our Union because it’s true: When we fight, we win.”

To Directly Access This Labor News Story, Go To: Staff at Fortune magazine win historic three-year contract with NY Guild | The NewsGuild - TNG-CWA

Students, Faculty & Staff Rally For 'More Funding' For SUNY, CUNY & Financial Aid

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

(ALBANY, NEW YORK) - More than 300 students, Faculty and Staff from the City University of New York (CUNY), the State University of New York (SUNY) and Independent Colleges rallied with Legislators inside the State Capitol in Albany to support a platform of increased funding for New York’s Public University Systems, broader access to free tuition, more financial aid and higher taxes on corporations and the rich to help sustain those investments.

A coalition of student organizations, Academic Unions and community groups kicked off their Higher Education Action Day before meeting with 100 Legislators.

Participants bused and carpooled from as far away as Buffalo, Plattsburgh, New York City and Stony Brook to join the action.

While Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed modest increases in funding for CUNY and SUNY, her Executive Budget falls short of the reinvestment needed to make up for years of disinvestment and mounting Federal cuts.

New funding is also needed to support program enhancements and to cover the costs of enrollment growth, those at the rally said.

The groups are calling for: Increases over the Executive Budget of more than $250 million for CUNY and SUNY Senior Colleges and Community Colleges; $108 million for CUNY to hire Full-Time Faculty, Advisors and Mental Health Counselors; $100 million across the SUNY system to support program enhancements and cover the costs of recent enrollment growth, plus $41.8 million to close budget deficits at the SUNY Colleges.

Most State-operated Colleges in the sprawling SUNY System are still facing budget shortfalls due to SUNY’s inequitable allocation of State funds and four campuses are in full-on crisis: SUNY’s College of Environmental Science and Forestry ($8.3 million deficit); Buffalo State University ($16 million deficit); SUNY Fredonia ($11 million deficit); and SUNY Potsdam ($6.5 million deficit).

At CUNY’s 25 Colleges and Schools, the staffing gains from prior budget cycles have been eroded by Faculty attrition, leaving the system vastly understaffed, those at the rally said.

Hochul is also seeking to expand SUNY and CUNY Reconnect, the rebranded program of free Community College for students ages 25-55 in high-demand fields that was called the Opportunity Promise Scholarship in last year’s budget.

The Coalition supports Reconnect as a step toward universally-free Higher Education.

Still, it is urging the state to fund thousands of new Full-Time Faculty and Staff to accommodate the new students - more than 5,600 at the SUNY Community Colleges and almost 5,900 at the CUNY Community Colleges.

United University Professions (UUP) President Fred Kowal (Pictured Above/Photo Courtesy Of UUP), said: “We thank the Governor and the Legislature for their ongoing commitment to Public Higher Education. Over the last three years, they have provided significant increases to SUNY and CUNY. Unfortunately, Public Higher Education has been under attack from the Federal Government. We need to push back on these attacks and protect the incredible work that happens every day at our Colleges, our Universities and our Public Teaching Hospitals. Now more than ever, we need to continue the progress we have made to ensure that campuses have the resources they need to provide the highest quality of academic programs and services that students need and deserve.”

To Read This Labor News Report In Its Entirety, Go To: Press Release | Students, Faculty and Staff Rally with Legislators for Increased Funding for SUNY, CUNY, Financial Aid

Perry Educators 'Deliver Maternity Leave In New Contract'

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

(PERRY, NEW YORK) - Kathryn Luczak had saved up as much sick time as she could over the past nine years, but two unpaid maternity leaves during that time had left the Perry Professional Educators Association (PPEA) Member with only 11 days she could use when she found out she was unexpectedly pregnant again with baby number three.

A two-time fertility patient with her older children, Luczak said this third pregnancy was a beautiful gift, but completely unplanned: “I was freaking out. I was going to have to take unpaid time to stay home for the normal eight weeks after another C-section and we were going to be hurting as a family of five with three kids under five.”

Luczak, a Universal Pre-K Teacher at Perry Central School for 13 years, said she immediately looked at her contract and, to her surprise, found new language establishing 40 days of Paid Maternity Leave from the District that is not to be deducted from accumulated Sick Leave.

“I chased our President, Rod, down the hall and cried and hugged him,” Luczak said.

“She told me you absolutely saved me,” said PPEA President Rodney Allen.

Allen, a Physical Education Teacher, said this was an issue that had been discussed for years: “There’s so much stress on a young family and most Mothers burn up all their sick days, especially Moms having second and third babies or who have C-sections - they just don’t have any days left.”

Luczak added that running out of sick time is a significant problem particularly for Mothers who work in education and are primary caregivers at home: “With the job I have, I bring home sicknesses to my kids. Being a UPK Teacher, I get sneezed on daily, so my kids don’t even have a chance.”

Fortunately, Allen said Paid Maternity Leave was important to both sides during negotiations and was agreed to easily without any concessions.

He gave credit to a supportive Superintendent who Allen said respects the role of Unions in the School System.

In a Facebook post, Superintendent Daryl McLaughlin wrote: “When we take care of our people, that care is extended to our students and their educational experiences.”

With the help of their New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) Labor Relations Specialist, PPEA was also able to win paid time for current Members who have previously had children during their employment in the School District.

Under the contract, they will be awarded 20 sick days per occurrence to be credited upon their retirement.

“That was really important to me,” Allen said. “I didn’t want them to feel forgotten.”

The contract does stipulate that after completing their leave, Members must remain employed for three full school years or be required to pay the District back - but Allen said the benefit is already having a significant impact even in other nearby Districts where NYSUT Locals are working to get similar language.

“People are asking me about it all the time. We’re looking to see what we can get for paternity leave next,” Allen said.

Now back at work after delivering her baby Shae Austin last October, Luczak said she’s grateful to have had the time at home to enjoy her newborn without worrying about a paycheck, and she hopes more Districts around the State begin offering the same opportunity to parents: “It’s about time. We take care of kids for a living and we love it, yet so many of us don’t get the time to take care of our own.”

To Directly Access This Labor News Report, Go To: Perry educators deliver maternity leave in new contract