Media Advisory
For release
Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Needy families to benefit from PEF holiday tradition

Albany — Members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) will be keeping a tradition alive by sharing with needy families and children by wrapping gifts on Saturday, December 15 between 10 a.m. and 12 noon.

The event will take place at PEF Headquarters, 1168-70 Troy-Schenectady Road in Latham. Union members and their families will wrap gifts and assemble holiday baskets of food for children and families of local parolees who are working but financially restricted, and trying to turn their lives around.

The toys were collected from PEF Region 8 members who attended a holiday party. The items will also be donated to the Toys for Tots program and St. Margaret’s Children Center in Albany.

“This marks our 18th year of doing something for special children during the holiday season,” said PEF Region 8 Coordinator Tom Comanzo.

“This tradition of giving to parolee families makes a difference in their lives. They are very appreciative for the gesture and for PEF recognizing their efforts to change,” Comanzo said. “The special needs children of St. Margaret’s are also grateful. It’s a pleasure for all of us at PEF to make a difference during the holidays.”
 

Statement by PEF President Ken Brynien regarding proposal to close budget gap

ALBANY — "Years of damaging cuts in the state workforce by the previous administration have cost state taxpayers millions. It's time to reverse the trend and realize the true bargain of state employees.

The governor is uneasy over the potential $4.3 billion budget gap. The New York State Public Employees Federation, (PEF) shares that concern. We all have to share the pain and do our part to help close the gap, but not on the backs of the state workforce.

Senate Minority Leader Malcolm Smith proposed cutting thousands of state jobs claiming it would trim $2 billion from the budget gap. Senator Smith's scheme is way off base. He has grossly exaggerated the average salary of a state employee and he fails to consider the real cost savings of eliminating private contractors.

Perhaps the senate minority leader needs to be reminded of the 2005 Fiscal Policy Institute study that shows the state could save over $500 million a year by hiring state employees instead of high-cost private consultants. The study proves what PEF has been saying for years, that state workers can do the job better and for less, even when benefits are figured into the costs.

On this day of giving thanks, we should not be giving credence to a misguided proposal to cut thousands of state jobs. We should instead be thankful for the bargain state workers are to New York's taxpayers."

For Release: Tuesday, October 30, 2007

State employees rally for economic relief in high-cost areas

Manhattan- Members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) gathered in City Hall Park in Manhattan today for a noontime rally calling for locality-pay increases in this and other high-cost areas of the state.

Hundreds of PEF members carried signs, marched and chanted, urging contract negotiators for the Governor's Office of Employee Relations (GOER) to address the cost-of-living (COLA) crisis faced by those who live downstate.

"The quality of life for many of our members is eroding," said PEF President Ken Brynien. "Our members are dedicated public servants who are no longer able to afford to live and raise their families in the communities in which they work."

PEF Vice President and Contract Chair Lou Matrazzo said the location pay issue continues to be a top priority in contract negotiations with the state.

"Cost-of-living pay increases simply have not kept pace with high housing and other costs, forcing many of the state's engineers, accountants, health care providers and others to consider abandoning their communities in search of more favorable economic climates elsewhere," Matrazzo said. "It's imperative that economic relief is included in our next contract."

"State employees are being crushed by economic conditions and costs beyond their control," said Jemma Marie-Hanson, PEF Region 11 (Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island) coordinator. "The increases in the cost of living downstate over the past several years have significantly outpaced other parts of our state."

PEF Region 10 (Manhattan, Bronx) Coordinator Vernetta Chesimard added, “It’s a proven fact, living downstate is more expensive and our members are struggling, now more than ever, trying to make ends meet. The current locality pay system doesn’t work. We feel strongly, the federal model is a better solution.”

The federal government has an objective pay system that accounts for regional cost-of-living differences in New York State. Federal employees in NYS from Ulster County south receive an additional 10.59 percent of salary as location pay.

For Release: Friday, October 26, 2007
MEDIA ADVISORY

State employees rally for locality-pay increases in high-cost areas

MANHATTAN- On Tuesday, October 30, members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) will hold a rally to call for economic relief for state employees who work in
high-cost areas of the state.

Hundreds of PEF members will gather at City Hall Park across from 250 Broadway between Park Place and Murray Street at noon to discuss why the current locality-pay system doesn't work and why the state should follow the federal model instead.

Members are prepared to talk about the difficulty of trying to live on a salary that lags behind the increases in the cost-of-living downstate.

Pay increases for high cost-of-living areas have not kept pace with soaring housing costs, forcing the state’s engineers, accountants, auditors and others to abandon their communities in search of more favorable economic climates elsewhere. The state’s failure to address this issue contributes to the problem of younger workers in particular being forced out of their communities.

Leaders from PEF will have a message for negotiators from the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations (GOER): “It's time for relief. It's time for pay equity among all state employees working in high-cost areas.”
 

HAUPPAUGE - Members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) and the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) gathered outside the Hauppauge State Office Building for a noontime rally today to call for locality-pay increases in this and other high-cost areas of the state.

HAUPPAUGE - On Wednesday, October 17, members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) will be joined by members from the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) for a rally calling for economic relief for state employees who work in high-cost areas of the state.

For Release: Friday, August 3, 2007

Pilgrim employees tell chair of Assembly Mental Health Committee of violence, injuries at psychiatric center

ALBANY — Hundreds of people were hurt last year at Pilgrim Psychiatric Center and they want the violence there to stop. That was the message staff at the West Brentwood facility gave to state Assembly Member Peter Rivera (D-Bronx) who visited the center today and met with members of the NYS Public Employees Federation (PEF) Division 233.

Rivera, who chairs the state Assembly Committee on Mental Health, visited the facility to learn about the violence and related staffing issues, how they are affecting staff and patients and what can be done about it.

“Pilgrim had the one of the worst records for staff injuries last year of all the 26 psychiatric centers and forensic facilities operated by the state Office of Mental Health (OMH),” said PEF Vice President Pat Baker. “An average of one in every three employees were hurt last year at Pilgrim.

“That’s why we asked Assembly Member Rivera to come and meet our members to hear how serious this problem is,” Baker said. “We are very grateful for the strong interest he takes in the safety of both patients and staff. He also visited psychiatric centers in the Bronx and in Albany this year at our request, because they also have very high injury rates.”

Pilgrim logged 511 reports of staff getting hurt on the job in 2006, and 331 of those reports (65 percent) involved interactions with patients, according to data gathered by OMH and presented at a March symposium on efforts to build a “Safe and Therapeutic Environment” at the agency. On average, statewide, 80 percent of staff injuries involving patients resulted from patient assaults on staff or ocurred when staff tried to restrain patients who were out of control.

Baker said, “Staff injuries have become a vicious cycle at Pilgrim, because employees who are seriously hurt have to take time off to recover and that just adds to the problems of short staffing and mandatory overtime, especially for our nurses. And we know that not having enough staff, and making people work extra shifts when they are already exhausted, or fill in on units where they don’t know the patients, just raises the chances of someone getting hurt.”

On-the-job injuries cost Pilgrim 6,163 staff days in 2006 — the equivalent of losing 29 staff for the entire year.

“When we recently surveyed our members at Pilgrim, more than 65 percent said they had been directly affected by workplace violence. And 81 percent of those responding said they did not feel protected by the center’s violenceprevention policies,” said PEF Region 12 Coordinator Doris Dodson.

Rosario Pascual, an intensive care manager at Pilgrim and council leader of PEF Division 233 at the center, said, “The survey showed nearly every one of our members has been injured or knows a co-worker who was injured by the violence here. It’s a terrible strain and worry for everyone.”

PEF represents more than 580 employees at Pilgrim Psychiatric Center and 56,000 professional, scientific, andtechnical employees of New York state and other public and private entities statewide.

Wednesday, August 1, 2007

MEDIA ADVISORY:

Violence, injuries at Pilgrim Psychiatric Center prompt visit by chair of Assembly Mental Health Committee

ALBANY — The chairman of the state Assembly Committee on Mental Health, Peter Rivera (DBronx), will visit Pilgrim Psychiatric Center Friday, August 3, to tour the facility and meet with members of NYS Public Employees Federation (PEF) Division 233, including Pilgrim nurses and other medical professionals, to discuss the high level of violence and injuries at the center, as well as staffing, overtime and other concerns.

Rivera and PEF officials — including Vice President Pat Baker, Region 12 (Long Island) Coordinator Doris Dodson, Division 233 council leader Rosario Pascual, and other members — will be available to meet with the press and other news media at 1:30 p.m. in front of the Pilgrim Rehabilitation Center (Building 102) on the campus at 998 Crooked Hill Road, West Brentwood.

July 16, 2007

PEF urges Senate to pass bill restricting mandatory OT for RNs

ALBANY — A media report today links massive overtime worked by a patient-care aide at a state program in Schenectady with the February death of an autistic teen at the facility. The aide is one of the employees charged with negligent homicide and manslaughter in the child’s tragic death.

According to the report in a Capital District newspaper today, the aide — Edwin Tirado — worked more than 1,647 hours of overtime last year, and was exhausted by working a series of double shifts before the child stopped breathing during a shopping trip with Tirado and another aide.

“We hope the state Senate, which is meeting today in special session, will take this opportunity to put firm limits on the astounding amounts of overtime thousands of nurses are required to work in state health care facilities and programs throughout New York,” said NYS Public Employees Federation President Ken Brynien. “The state Assembly has already passed this legislation (A.1898B/S.6342) which would help protect the safety and welfare of patients.”

The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF), which represents more than 8,500 state nurses, has been leading the call for this legislation for many years.

“The state must begin to staff its health care facilities and programs adequately,” Brynien said. “Our state Senate is in the ideal place today to take a stand for patient safety and quality care. While the Mandatory Overtime Bill would affect only state nurses, it is a crucial step in correcting this dangerous situation. Eleven other states have passed similar legislation to protect their citizens. New Yorkers deserve no less.”

PEF represents more than 56,000 professional, scientific, and technical employees of New York state and other public and private entities. (PEF, however, does not represent state patient-care aides, such as Mr. Tirado.)
 

PEF’s Workers’ Compensation reporting bill signed into law

Albany - New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) President Kenneth Brynien hailed the signing of PEF’s Workplace Injury Disclosure and Accountability bill (S1710/A6642) by Gov. Eliot Spitzer.

“The governor recognizes with the signing of this bill, the importance of reducing work-related injury in state agencies and improving safety programs,” Brynien said. “This law is long overdue and will go a long way in helping state agency managers and union leaders to identify trends and reduce workers’ compensation costs by preventing injury and illness on the job.”

In the 2007-2008 state budget, the state estimates its annual cost for direct workers compensation claims by injured state workers to be $220 million.

The Workplace Injury Disclosure and Accountability bill, sponsored by Senator Joseph Robach and Assembly Member Susan John requires that the Department of Civil Service produce an annual report on state employees’ workers’ compensation injuries and related costs to help agencies identify prevention strategies. The Civil Service Department has not produced such a report for 15 years. The legislation requires reporting workers’ compensation cases by agency as well as the amount of lost work time and cost-of-wage replacement and medical expenses. It also calls for a list of the job titles with work-related injury and illness rates that are more than 25 percent above the average for all

state agencies. According to the legislation, the report must be published no later than September 13 of each year, beginning in 2008.

“This law is comprehensive, in that it requires a report on all work-related injuries and illnesses that generate a workers’ compensation claim for state employees,” Brynien said. “This valuable information can be used to reduce injuries in the workplace which has been a key component of PEF’s Stop Workplace Violence Campaign.”

PEF mounted an aggressive Stop Workplace Violence Campaign in 2005 urging passage of three bills including the Workplace Injury Disclosure and Accountability bill. The Workplace Violence Prevention bill was signed into law in June, 2006. That law requires public employers with more than 20 employees to assess risk and develop and implement a written plan of action to prevent potential workplace violence. PEF is continuing to push the third and final bill, The Judi Scanlon bill (S3101/A2316) which directs that an Office of Mental Health employee who is required to

enter the residence of a person with serious mental illness can request to be accompanied by another employee for safety reasons.

The New York State Public Employees Federation is the second-largest state-employee union representing 57,000 professional, scientific and technical employees. For more information please call PEF Director of Public Relations, Darcy Wells at (518) 785-1900 ext. 277 or (518) 859-1274.

Assembly passes bill to end Mandatory Overtime

PEF urges Senate to follow

Albany - The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) commends Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver for his leadership in passing the Mandatory Overtime Bill (A1898A/S125) sponsored by Assembly Member Aileen Gunther.

“PEF first raised this important issue nearly a decade ago with a small group of nurses who rallied at the state Capitol, said PEF President Ken Brynien. “That rally cry grew year after year. Nurses wanted their voices heard, as the stress and demand on the job put patient safety at risk. Last month, more than 700 nurses from five unions joined forces demanding action. We are thankful the Assembly leadership had the vision to finally pass this bill. We urge the Senate to do the same.”

The bill restricts consecutive hours of required work by nurses, with appropriate exceptions for emergencies. It does not prohibit a nurse from voluntarily working overtime. For years, nurses have been required to work long overtime hours, often including double shifts which increases the risk of errors, erodes family life and discourages people from entering the nursing profession.

“This is long overdue,” said PEF Statewide Nurses Committee Chair Doris Dodson. “This year, we returned to Albany with an expanded coalition and revised strategy determined to get this bill passed. Safe, quality patient care cannot be valued if the health care provider is not valued and protected.”

“Eleven other states have passed similar laws or regulations,” Brynien said. “We urge the senate to follow suit on this critical health care issue. No one wants a nurse who has worked 16 consecutive hours to be the caregiver for their loved one. This bill is the first step toward ensuring that no longer happens.”
 

For Release: Immediate, June 4, 2007

Multi union television campaign aims to save SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital

In an unprecedented move, four powerful unions representing thousands of health care workers across the state, have joined forces to save Upstate New York's only public university hospital, SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital in Syracuse.

The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF), The Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA), The New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) and The United University Professions (UUP) have teamed up for a television advertising campaign to raise public awareness on this critical health care issue.

Last year, the New York State Commission on the Health Care Facilities in the 21st Century, commonly referred to as the Berger Commission, released a misguided plan to privatize SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital by merging it with Crouse Hospital in Syracuse.

"The Berger Commission recommendations would jeopardize the high quality of care currently being provided in Central New York," said PEF President Ken Brynien. "The proposal is nothing more than bad public policy that threatens the delivery of essential health care services to the 27 counties served by Upstate Medical University Hospital."

"CSEA, PEF, UUP and NYSUT, along with so many others, have said from the start that the proposal for Upstate Medical University Hospital is ill advised and impractical," said CSEA President Danny Donohue. "It's also clear that it's already compromising the quality of health care for the New Yorkers who depend on it."

Hospital officials recently waited five months to get permission from the state to replace a broken radiation machine preventing critically ill patients from getting the treatment they need.

"The Berger Commission plan has the potential to devastate the communities that rely on Upstate Medical University Hospital for medical care, while harming the upstate economy," said NYSUT President Richard C. Iannuzzi. "The governor and legislature can prevent this disastrous proposal by keeping Upstate in the University, and have an obligation to address this important issue before leaving Albany."

"New York state must not abandon its obligation to provide health care to everyone, including the poor and uninsured," said UUP President, William E. Scheuerman. "Keeping Upstate Medical University Hospital in the State University system will protect the lifeline to health care for thousands of New Yorkers who do not have other access to medical services."

All four unions have also filed separate lawsuits challenging the legality of the Berger Commission recommendations. The cases are scheduled for argument in Albany County Supreme Court on July 20.

The ad will air nearly 900 times on broadcast and cable television in the Albany, Syracuse and New York City television markets for the remainder of the legislative session scheduled to end June 21.

UUP represents 33,000 academic and professional faculty throughout the SUNY system, including 2200 employees at Upstate Medical University.

PEF is the state’s second-largest state-employee union, representing 56,000 professional, scientific and technical employees, including approximately 900 nurses and other health care professionals at SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital.

NYSUT represents more than 585,000 professionals in education and health care.

CSEA is New York's leading union representing 265,000 members statewide including 1,350 employees of Upstate Medical University Hospital.
 

FOR RELEASE: Wednesday, May 9, 2007

PEF parole officers demand investigation and accountability of their own agency

Albany - Members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) who work for the state Division of Parole (DOP) held a press conference on the steps of the Capitol this afternoon, demanding an independent investigation into the misuse of DOP resources.

“Managers at DOP wasted an incredible amount of time and energy conducting what amounts to a witchhunt, trying to identify and punish a whistleblower who was trying to protect the public’s safety,” said PEF President Ken Brynien.

“While we recognize this internal investigation was done by the previous administration, we are calling for an independent probe to protect the rights of the state’s parole officers and restore integrity to the DOP,” Brynien added.

Last year, a series of news stories revealed that convicted felons were violating their conditions of parole while DOP managers looked the other way. DOP assigned several supervisors to find out who was leaking the information to the press and it now appears the DOP used dirty tactics that border on the criminal in its investigation.

“That investigation was so heavy-handed,” said Division 236 Council Leader Manuelita Clemente, “that supervisors used agency subpoenas to access the personal phone records of state parole officers.”

“We have information that leads us to believe they also used GPS devices on some of our vehicles to track our every move. All this, at a time when supervisors should have been concentrating on violating parolees who were committing serious crimes,” Clemente added.

“The new administration has disbanded the DOP’s Office of Professional Responsibility which is a step in the right direction,” Brynien said. “Now, it’s time to find out why this was allowed to happen and make sure those responsible are held accountable,” he added.

FOR RELEASE: Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Media Advisory

PEF Parole Officers to call for investigation of it’s own agency

Albany-On Wednesday, May 9, members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) who work for the state Division of Parole (DOP) will hold a press conference calling for an investigation into the dirty tactics used by parole managers to closely monitor parole officers.
PEF parole officers will release details showing just how far managers were willing to go to keep parole officers from speaking publicly about safety risks. Some tactics used by management border on criminal.

Parole Press Conference
Wednesday, May 9
12 Noon
East Steps of the State Capitol

PEF President Ken Brynien and Division 236 Council Leader Manuelita Clemente will be joined by a group of parole officers to discuss how an internal investigation got out of control.

April 12, 2007

Camp Cass workers tell town officials, ‘Keep it open.’

Rensselaerville — In an effort to keep the doors of Camp Cass open for troubled youths, NYS Public Employees Federation (PEF) members from that facility told officials at a town meeting last night their reasons why the state Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) should continue to help youthful offenders.

“We are opposing the state’s plan to convert Camp Cass into a temporary training center for new
employees because the state just spent millions of dollars renovating the detention center with several
security enhancements,” said Britta Lovegrove, a nurse and PEF council leader.

“We want to put a face on Camp Cass and the consequences of the proposal to close the camp,” Lovegrove said. “We want our local leaders and the town’s residents to know Cass is more than just a facility. It is part of the
community and the workers at Cass are also part of the community. Closing Cass will affect the many
families relying on the workers’ jobs and livelihoods.”

Christine Mickelsen, who has been a teacher at Camp Cass for 29 years, told the town’s board members the staff is “adamant that the facility be secure.” The bigger issue is their dedication to their work and helping to rebuild the lives of troubled youths.

“Cass holds 25 kids and we are excellent at delivering education and treatment services and life-changing skills,” Mickelsen said.

To prove their point, members said the majority of the community supported the work being done at the camp. They brought along signed petitions from people living in the immediate area as well as the outskirts of the town.

Mickelsen also said the camp was a great employment resource for the area, and worked well with local
organizations that would often tutor or present special programs for the troubled teens.
 

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

PEF files lawsuit over Berger Commission

Albany - The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) filed a lawsuit today in State Supreme Court challenging the recommendations of the New York State Commission on the Health Care Facilities in the 21st Century, commonly referred to as the Berger Commission.

In its final report, released last November, the Berger Commission included a recommendation that would privatize SUNY Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse by merging it with Crouse Hospital also in Syracuse.

In filing the lawsuit, PEF President Ken Brynien pointed out, while PEF expects to continue to work with the Spitzer Administration in an attempt to correct the ill-advised recommendation, PEF is preserving it’s legal options.

“We have already challenged the wisdom of privatizing SUNY Upstate,” Brynien said. “Crouse Hospital recently emerged from bankruptcy after falling $91 million into debt and has an average occupancy rate of less than 50 percent, while SUNY Upstate has an average occupancy rate of 80 percent and is financially sound.

“This lawsuit challenges the legality of the recommendations,” Brynien said. “The Berger Commission recommendation is a violation of the New York State Constitution. Decisions to close or merge hospitals should not be made by a commission that is unaccountable to the public and appointed by an outgoing governor. The commission also violated the Education Law. Only SUNY trustees have the authority to operate

Upstate Medical Center. That authority cannot be transferred to any other entity.”

Brynien also pointed out that the Berger Commission’s recommendation to privatize the SUNY hospital would not cut costs or save the taxpayers any money.

“In fact, the chancellor of SUNY has estimated the merger proposed by the Berger Commission would cost the taxpayers more than $700 million. It just doesn’t make sense,” Brynien said.

The lawsuit seeks an injunction against SUNY and the state Department of Health from implementing the recommendations and it seeks a determination from the court that the recommendations are null and void.

FOR RELEASE: Immediate
Wednesday, March 14, 2007

MEDIA ADVISORY

Albany - Members of The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) who work in the Capital Region will participate in a leadership conference being held at the Gideon Putnam Resort and Spa in Saratoga Springs, March 16 - 18, 2007.

Dozens of PEF members will come together for two full days of workshops geared toward building leadership skills. Participants will learn how to become a mentor and how to apply those skills toward future leadership roles within PEF.

The conference is the first in a year-long series designed to build self-esteem and acquire the skills needed to take on a leadership role.

PEF President Ken Brynien and Region 8 Coordinator Tom Comanzo will address participants during the opening session on Friday, March 16.

Region 8 Leadership Conference
Gideon Putnam Resort
Saratoga Springs, NY
Friday, March 16 - Reception at 6 p.m.
Saturday, March 17 - Workshops 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Sunday, March 18 - Workshop 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
 

PEF, GOER host statewide Occupational Health & Safety Conference

Albany — The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) and the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations (GOER) will host an occupational health and safety conference called “Work Shouldn’t Hurt” at the Desmond Hotel in Colonie on March 1 - 3.

Acting Commissioner of Labor M. Patricia Smith will deliver the keynote address on Thursday, March 1 between 7:30 and 9 p.m. in the King Street room. Smith will discuss Gov. Eliot Spitzer’s plans for improving workplace safety and reducing workers’compensation costs.

Historians Gerald Markowitz and David Rosner will also speak about the fatal consequences of inadequate worker and community protection from toxins such as lead, asbestos and vinyl chloride.

Seventeen workshops are scheduled for March 2 and include occupational stress, emergency preparedness, workshop violence prevention, indoor air quality and others. Another workshop will also focus on the implementation of the new law requiring state agencies to plan programs to reduce workplace violence.

The statewide conference, which will include more than 400 state managers and union leaders, is a joint effort to enhance worker protections in New York, highlight effective programs that are already in place, and develop action plans for 2007 and beyond.
 

Monday, February 26, 2007

New budget process - a wake-up call
PEF President reveals shocking price tag on private consultants

Albany - New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) President Ken Brynien gave lawmakers eye-popping figures during testimony in Albany today, that show just how much the state is spending on private consultants.

Brynien testified before the Assembly Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committees on how the executive budget for the first time spells out how much each state agency is spending on private consultants. “The figures are alarming,” Brynien said.

“State agencies employed more than 7,500 employees under consultant contracts last fiscal year at an estimated cost to taxpayers of $910.9 million or an average cost of $120,718 per consultant contract employee,” Brynien said.

Brynien presented lawmakers a chart showing the 13 worst offenders who pay consultants an average of almost $300,000 per year.

“The Department of Agriculture and Markets paid its contractors an average of more than a half a million dollars a year, per employee,” Brynien testified.

“PEF supports the governor’s proposal to save the taxpayers millions of dollars by reducing the use of costly consultants and instead relying on qualified state employees to do the work, but we would like to see the state go a step further,” Brynien added.

Brynien urged lawmakers to pass the Cost-Benefit Analysis bill, supported by PEF as part of its Go Public campaign. It would require the state to comparison shop for the best bargain, just like businesses do, to determine whether private consultants or state employees are the better deal.
 

February 22, 2007

PEF President to testify about high cost of private consultants

Information available for first time through new budget process

Albany- New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) President Ken Brynien will reveal the shocking amount of state tax dollars being paid to private consultants who are hired by the state of New York.

Brynien will testify before the Assembly Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committees using figures from the proposed executive budget that for the first time spells out how much state agencies are spending each year contracting out work that state employees can do for much less.

Brynien will urge lawmakers to take advantage of the new open budget process to find out why, for example, the Department of Agriculture and Markets is paying its contractors an average of more than half a million dollars per year!

Workforce Hearing
Assembly Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committees
Monday, February 26th
10:00 a.m.
Hearing Room B
Legislative Office Building, Albany NY

Brynien will also encourage lawmakers to pass the Cost-Benefit Analysis bill PEF has supported as part of its Go Public Campaign. The bill would require the state to comparison shop for the best bargain, just like businesses do, to determine whether private consultants or state employees are the better deal.

Wednesday, January 31, 2007

PEF President - State Budget is on target

Albany - “In releasing his first state budget, Gov. Eliot Spitzer is following through on his campaign promise to reduce the reliance on costly private consultants and instead rely on qualified and less expensive public employees,” said Ken Brynien, President of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF).

“For years, PEF has tried to draw attention through it’s Go Public campaign, to the millions of taxpayer dollars wasted each year when the state hires expensive private consultants to do the work state workers can do better and for less. Now, it appears we have a governor who recognizes the better use of tax dollars is to invest in the state workforce.

“We are pleased that the governor’s action in his budget proposal would increase resources, in particular to the state Department of Transportation with the addition of 411 jobs and the state Department of Environmental Conservation by adding 109 positions. These added resources are long overdue and will benefit the taxpayers of New York.

“The governor’s spending plan also calls for adding 189 jobs at the state Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) while proposing the closure of several youth facilities including Great Valley and three group homes for troubled youth in Brooklyn, Gloversville and Mount Vernon. While we have concerns about the proposed closings, we are hopeful his plan to add positions at OCFS will address restructuring of the workforce without compromising the level of care provided,” Brynien said.
 

PEF joins “Walk to Rescue NYS Hospitals”

Albany — Leaders of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) joined members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) in their walk across the state to protest recommendations from The Berger Commission report.

PEF leaders walked alongside CWA members in the final trek of their 320 mile-long march from Buffalo to the State Capitol.

The Berger Commission recommended closing several hospitals and proposed to once again study the possibility of privatizing all SUNY teaching hospitals. The state panel also wants to merge SUNY Upstate Medical Center with Crouse Hospital in Syracuse, replacing a successful SUNY public operating model with a failed private operating model.

“PEF has been opposed to the commission’s recommendations from the start.” said PEF Secretary-Treasurer Arlea Igoe.

“We have provided testimony pointing out the dangers of the recommendations and we are joining in this march today to again make sure our voices are heard.”

“This privatization scheme won’t save any money,” said PEF Vice President Joe Fox. “But it would jeopardize the high quality of care at these facilities.”

“The Berger Commission does not have the authority to recommend these changes,” added PEF Vice President Lou Matrazzo. “This commission is unaccountable to the public and appointed by an outgoing governor.”

“Privatization would further reduce or eliminate important services that the private operators felt to be unprofitable,” said PEF Region 8 Coordinator Tom Comanzo.

PEF leaders are urging the governor and legislature to retake control of the future of New York’s health care delivery system by amending parts of the law.

MEDIA ADVISORY

PEF to join “Walk to Rescue NYS Hospitals”

Albany — On Friday, January 26, leaders of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) will join members of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) in their walk across the state to protest recommendations from The Berger Commission report.

PEF leaders will join the walk from Albany Medical Center Hospital at 11:15 a.m. to the steps of the State Capitol at noon where PEF leaders will be available for interviews.

The Commission recommended closing several hospitals and proposed to once again study the possibility of privatizing all SUNY teaching hospitals. The state panel also wants to merge SUNY Upstate Medical Center with Crouse Hospital in Syracuse, replacing a successful SUNY public operating model with a failed private operating model.

PEF believes the commission did not have the authority to recommend the changes and warns the changes could jeopardize the high quality of care currently being provided at SUNY hospitals.

PEF Supports Crackdown On Workers’ Comp Fraud To Cut Insurance Costs And Increase Benefits

ALBANY - Leaders of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) are throwing their support behind a plan aimed at offsetting the cost of increased workers’ compensation benefits by cracking down on fraud committed by employers.

According to a study released today by the Fiscal Policy Institute (FPI), the state’s workers’ compensation system is cheated out of as much as $1 billion a year in required insurance premiums when employers fail to pay those premiums or misclassify the number or type of employees who work for them. The fraud results in higher costs to honest employers.

“Governor Eliot Spitzer has promised to fix the workers’ comp system which he said in his State of the State address, does not work for anyone,” said PEF President Ken Brynien.

“New York state not only has the lowest rate of compensation for injured workers in the country, those injured workers have not seen an increase since 1992,” Brynien said.

“An important step toward improving the system is increasing resources and staff at the Workers’ Compensation Board and State Insurance Fund (SIF) to better monitor employer compliance,” Brynien said.

“Noncompliance is rampant. According to the SIF, 200 auditors uncovered additional revenues that amounted to $493,000 per auditor. The SIF has a proven record of combating fraud and should be expanded to uncover additional shortfalls in the system.”

PEF president encouraged by Governor Spitzer’s call for transparency and accountability in state government

Albany- New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) President Kenneth Brynien called Governor Eliot Spitzer’s first State of the State address encouraging.

PEF supports the governor’s vision to reform public authorities, invest in the state’s infrastructure and strengthen transparency and accountability in state government.

“PEF has for years recognized that the reliance on countless public authorities to administer state or federal funds dilutes the level of public oversight,” said Brynien.

“PEF also applauds Spitzer’s call for reducing the state’s cost structure,” Brynien added. We are hopeful Governor Spitzer will implement his campaign budget plan to reduce the use of private sector consultants and save hundreds of millions of dollars each year. The cost-benefit analysis bill supported by PEF, passed by the legislature but vetoed by the former governor would help do just that. The bill requires the state to comparison
shop for the best bargain before awarding state contracts for services.

“We look forward to working with Governor Spitzer and are confident he will recognize the important role the public sector will play in helping him realize his vision of “one New York” and revitalizing the state’s economy.
 

PEF says “No” to Berger Commission as hundreds rally at State Capitol

Albany — Hundreds of New York State Public Employee Federation (PEF) members carried signs, chanted and spoke out at a rally against the recommendations proposed by the Berger Commission to close or merge hospitals across the state.

At the noon rally on the east steps of the State Capitol, a broad coalition of labor unions and private health care workers from Long Island to Buffalo gathered to persuade the Legislature to bring the report to the floor and vote it down.

“This rally is a unified effort to send a loud message to our lawmakers that the plan has to go,” said PEF President Ken Brynien. “I question the commission’s authority to recommend privatization as well as the wisdom of doing so. The legislators should question it too. These hospitals treat a large indigent population whose care could be threatened by privatization. And, there is no evidence that privatization of these facilities would save any money.”

The Berger Commissions proposals would lead to SUNY Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse being taken over by Crouse Hospital, which Brynien noted recently emerged from bankruptcy after falling $91 million into debt and has an average occupancy rate of under 50 percent. “SUNY Upstate has an average occupancy rate of 80 percent and is financially sound,” Brynien said.

Other speakers at the rally included leaders from the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA), United University Professions (UUP), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA), Communication Workers of America (CWA), New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) and employees and supporters of the Bellevue Woman’s Hospital in Niskayuna.
 

PEF To Assembly Health Committee; Berger Commission - Misleading, Damaging and Just Wrong!

Albany - Leaders of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) testified at hearings across the state today pointing out inconsistencies, dangers and misinformation included in the Berger Commission report on health care facilities.

“The Berger Commission’s report is flawed,” said PEF President Ken Brynien who testified in Syracuse. “It is filled with inconsistencies, and puts quality health care at risk. The commission also went well beyond the scope of its mission when it proposed that the privatization of the three SUNY teaching hospitals be studied and, at the same time, proposed the privatization of SUNY Upstate Medical Center. These recommendations underscore the Commission’s
confusion about its authority.”

“No facts, no data, no evidence favor privatization of SUNY hospitals,” Brynien said. “In fact, based on current trends, private hospitals tend to cost more and put profits above people, leaving the uninsured with nowhere to turn. It’s also unlikely a private hospital would absorb the operating losses of the trauma and burn center now provided by SUNY Upstate. That would leave the community and 17 surrounding counties without vital services.”

PEF Vice President Pat Baker and Region 11 Coordinator Jemma Marie-Hanson testified in Manhattan. “As a resident of Brooklyn and an employee at Kingsboro Psychiatric Center, I can tell you that if SUNY Downstate were to be privatized it would have a devastating impact on the community,” said Baker. “This report puts a bulls-eye squarely on the back of New York’s most indigent patients.”

Hanson, an RN who works at SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, said, “It’s unclear to me why we need another study of the three SUNY hospitals to consider privatization. The state conducted a study six years ago and concluded privatization of SUNY hospitals was not necessary.”

On Long Island, PEF Region 12 Coordinator Doris Dodson told lawmakers, “Decisions to privatize, close and/or merge hospitals should not be made by a commission unaccountable to the public and appointed by an outgoing governor,” said Dodson. “As an RN who works at SUNY Stony Brook, I understand first-hand the important role teaching hospitals play in providing one of the most unprofitable services to the community - caring for the uninsured and
underinsured. Who would fill that gap if profits were put above people?”
 

PEF helps make holiday wishes come true for special children

Albany — Members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) and their families kept a holiday tradition alive for 17 years today by wrapping toys and preparing gift and food baskets for needy families and children. The union members and other volunteers met at PEF Headquarters in Latham.

The toys and food baskets will be donated to the Toys for Tots program, St. Margaret’s Children Center in Albany, and to parolees who are deserving and particularly needy.

“Through this program, we are able to share the true spirit of the holidays with those in need,” said PEF President Ken Brynien. “We look forward to participating and fulfilling the wishes of those less fortunate.”

PEF Region 8 members in the Albany area donated the toys in lieu of an admission fee at the union’s annual holiday party, according to Regional Coordinator Tom Comanzo.

“We found out what the special needs children at St. Margaret’s wished for, and we tried to fulfill those wishes this year,” Comanzo said. “Our members’ generosity will hopefully bring some happiness and smiles to these children. This program exemplifies the generosity of giving, and how in giving we really receive so much more.”

Parole officers will also deliver gift baskets during home visits to the families of selected area parolees who are making an effort and struggling financially.
 

PEF members donate to needy families, keep tradition going

On Saturday, December 2 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) will be reaching out to share the spirit of the holidays by wrapping gifts for needy families and children.

Union members and their families will wrap gifts and assemble holiday baskets of food at PEF Headquarters, 1168-70 Troy-Schenectady Road in Latham. Some of the gifts and food baskets will be given to children and families of local parolees who are working but financially restricted, and trying to turn their lives around.

The toys were collected from PEF members attending the PEF Region 8 holiday party and will also be donated to the Toys for Tots program and St. Margaret’s Children Center in Albany.

“This marks our 17th year of doing something special for children during the holiday season,” said PEF Region 8 Coordinator Tom Comanzo. “The families of local parolees and the special needs children at St. Margaret’s have always shown so much appreciation. This has become a tradition of giving and PEF is pleased to make a difference during the holidays.”
 

State Panel Recommendations Threaten Public Health Care
Services in Syracuse Area Jeopardized

Albany - The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) is opposed to recommendations by the Commission on Health Care Facilities to replace a successful SUNY public operating model with a failed private operating model. PEF also questions the panel’s authority to recommend such changes.

“PEF is not opposed to an affiliation between Crouse Hospital with SUNY Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse,” said PEF President Ken Brynien. “But we are absolutely opposed to the idea of relying on the failed operating model of Crouse.”

Brynien pointed out Crouse Hospital recently emerged from bankruptcy after running up $91 million in debt. The hospital must repay $62 million in debt. Meanwhile, it’s occupancy rates are under 50 percent on average.

“SUNY Upstate Medical Center on the other hand has an average occupancy rate of 80 percent and is financially sound,” Brynien said. The commission has it backwards. It only makes sense to rely on the public SUNY operating model if the merged hospital and the essential health care services they provide are to be successful.”

“Our members are particularly concerned because SUNY Upstate trauma center and burn center provide a vital service to the community,” added SUNY Upstate nurse leader June Edwards. “But they provided these services at a operating loss. A private hospital may not be able to absorb such losses which would put these essential services for 17 counties in Central New York in jeopardy.”

“The commission offers no justification or rationale for eliminating the SUNY public model and it ignores a previous study in 2000 that found SUNY Upstate’s current operating structure is competitive and successful,” Brynien said.

PEF is also opposed to the commission’s suggestion to study the privatization of all of the SUNY teaching hospitals. "These hospitals treat a large indigent population whose care could be threatened by privatization; additionally, there is no evidence that privatization of these facilities would save any money." Brynien said.

PEF believes the commission did not have the authority to recommend changes in the operating structure of SUNY hospitals. Such decisions to close or merge hospitals should not be made by a commission that is unaccountable to the public and appointed by an outgoing governor.
 

PEF Parole Officers Issue Safety Warning
Division of Parole policies leave sex offenders unsupervised

Manhattan - Members of the New York State Public Employees Federation who work for the state Division of Parole (DOP) issued an emergency alert to the public and elected leaders today that public safety is being jeopardized due to the dangerous policies of the DOP.

PEF Division 236 Parole Officers carried signs that read “safety first” and chanted slogans including “let us do our job” as they rallied in City Hall Park from 12 to 2 p.m.

“We are trying to draw attention to a crisis situation,” said PEF Vice President Pat Baker. “The administration of Division Executive Director Anthony Ellis is crippling parole officers who are handcuffed by so much redundant paperwork and excessive caseloads, they are prevented from spending the time needed to adequately supervise parolees.”

PEF Division 236 Council Leader Manuelita Clemente added, “The public needs to be put on notice that paroled sex offenders are being released without supervision and are not attending therapy sessions as a required condition of release. This is all due to the intolerable working conditions set forth by the DOP which
is preventing parole officers from doing their job.”

PEF parole officers were also joined by PEF Region 10 Coordinator Vernetta Chesimard who represents officers from Manhattan and the Bronx, and PEF Region 11 Coordinator Jemma Marie-Hanson who represents officers from Richmond, Queens and Kings County.
 

PEF PAROLE OFFICERS RALLY FOR PUBLIC SAFETY

Division of Parole policies leave sex offenders unsupervised

Manhattan - On Friday, November 3 from 12 to 2 p.m., members of the New York State Public Employees Federation who work for the state Division of Parole (DOP) will issue a warning to the public and elected leaders that public safety is at risk due to the dangerous policies of the DOP.

The rally will take place in Manhattan at City Hall Park, across the street from 250 Broadway.

PEF Division 236 Parole Officers will give first hand experiences of the very real threat to public safety as a result of recent developments from sex offenders being released without supervision to parolees dumped back into society with little or no monitoring.

PEF parole officers will be joined by Assemblyman Jeffrion Aubry, chairman of the State Assembly Standing Committee on Corrections, Division 236 Council Leader Manuelita Clemente, PEF Vice President Pat Baker, Region 10 Coordinator Vernetta Chesimard who represents officers from Manhattan and the Bronx, along with Region 11 Coordinator Jemma Marie-Hanson who represents officers from Richmond, Queens and Kings County.

PEF Endorses Hyer-Spencer for 60th State Assembly District

Staten Island — The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) endorsed Janele Hyer-Spencer for the 60th state Assembly District today. The announcement was made at a noontime press conference at the entrance to the South Beach Psychiatric Center on Staten Island.

“Janele Hyer-Spencer deserves our endorsement, as she is a champion for the working class,” said PEF President Ken Brynien. “What matters to us is her commitment to the labor movement, helping state workers with their concerns, and being on the same page with us in wanting to increase staffing levels in hospitals and supporting nursing education. She understands the needs of working men and women and their families.”

PEF Region 11 Coordinator Jemma Marie-Hanson said union leaders are endorsing Hyer-Spencer because of her dedication to improving community life. “Janele will be a strong voice for working families in Albany. She is committed to the issues that matter most — good-paying jobs, affordable health care, quality schools and safe communities.”

“I gratefully accept the support of the 56,000 hardworking PEF members who make up one of our state’s finest public employee unions,” Hyer-Spencer said. “The support of the men and women who provide invaluable professional services to the people of New York will certainly help in our common fight to improve the lives of working families.”

Other PEF leaders also showed their support at the press conference. They were PEF Vice President Pat Baker and PEF Political Action Committee chair Alan Schulkin.
 

PEF to endorse Hyer-Spencer for Assembly

Staten Island….New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) leaders will officially endorse Janele Hyer-Spencer for the 60th state Assembly District at a press conference on Wednesday, November 1 at 12:15 at the South Beach Psychiatric Center on Staten Island.

The facility is located at 777 Seaview Ave., and the main entrance is approximately 3/4 mile from Hylan Blvd., on the left, and immediately before the intersection of Father Cappodanno Blvd.

PEF Vice President Pat Baker, PEF Region 11 Coordinator Jemma Marie-Hanson, Regional Political Action chair Alan Schulkin and other members will be in attendance.

Union leaders are endorsing Hyer-Spencer because of her dedication to the labor movement, concern about the need to ensure safe staffing levels in New York’s hospitals, and her support of nursing education to help end the state’s nursing shortage.

“Hyer-Spencer understands the pulse of the people living in Staten Island and Brooklyn,” Marie-Hanson said. “Our endorsement comes because of her qualifications, concern for state employees, families and health care issues.”

PEF, Lawmakers team up to tell governor;
Drop plans that will force job transfers and waste taxpayer dollars

Albany - Leaders of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) were joined by state Senator Neil Breslin and Albany County Executive Mike Breslin to denounce plans by the governor to force the relocation of Albany area jobs to Geneva and Utica.

In late September, Gov. George Pataki announced plans to relocate scientists who work at the state Department of Agriculture and Markets’ food-testing facility now located on the Harriman state office complex in Albany to a new yet-to-be-built facility in Geneva.

The governor also wants to relocate hundreds of computer operators who work for the state Office for Technology (OFT) in Albany to a consolidated center in Utica.

“The governor’s plan is bad for our members and bad for taxpayers,” said PEF Region 8 Coordinator Tom Comanzo.

“Our members should not be forced to relocate as a result of geographical patronage and the moves will not only cost taxpayers millions but jeopardize food safety.”

“Moving the food laboratory to Geneva would compromise the close working relationships with other state agencies located in the Albany area. The food lab recently collaborated with the Department of Health on the E.coli spinach outbreak, Comanzo said. “If the food lab were in Geneva, scientists could not have provided the rapid support they provided in that case. The support necessary to control and alleviate future food safety issues would be at risk by this move.”

State Senator Neil Breslin added, “It is absurd to move the state’s data center away from the State Capital, common sense dictates that it will be more expensive to disseminate information and communicate among state agencies when its main data center is 140 miles away from its users. State facilities should be located based on the merits not politics.”

PEF knows of no other state in the country that has located its consolidated data center outside the area of the state capital.

“The Governor attempted to move jobs away from Albany when he first came into office in 1995. The relocation of scientists from the state’s food safety lab and the relocation of employees of data centers here in Albany are another example of geographic patronage,” said Mike Breslin. “I am concerned that this is merely shifting public jobs around with no real benefit to the state, but with a real cost to the Albany area, not to mention the calamitous effects on the employees and their families.”

“There is no benefit to taxpayers,” Comanzo said. “The cost of building a center in Utica is now $24.5 million more than the governor’s original estimate. Albany has over 1,000 miles of fiber optic cable already in place; Utica has little if any.

And there has been no cost analysis to support the move.”

Lawmakers join PEF in opposing forced job transfers

Albany — On Tuesday, October 3 at 11 a.m., leaders of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) will be joined by state Senator Neil Breslin, state Assemblyman John McEneny, Albany County Executive Mike Breslin, and dozens of PEF members on the steps of the State Capitol for a press conference to oppose forced job transfers.

In late September, Gov. George Pataki announced plans to relocate state workers. Scientists who work at the food testing lab in Albany, and who were instrumental in working with the state Department of Health on the recent E.coli spinach outbreak, have been told their jobs will be moved to Geneva.

The governor also wants to relocate hundreds of computer operators who work in Albany at the state’s data centers to a consolidated center in Utica.

PEF Region 8 Coordinator, Tom Comanzo, will speak about how the governor’s plans will put consumer safety at risk, and waste millions of taxpayer dollars.

PEF urges governor to sign the Judi Scanlon bill

Murder victim’s daughter makes personal appeal

Buffalo - The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) is calling on Gov. George Pataki to protect mental health workers by signing the Judi Scanlon bill (S.207 Maziarz/A.2570 Hoyt).

At a press conference held today on the steps of the Erie County court house, PEF President Roger Benson said the bill, if signed by the governor, will provide basic protections that mental health workers deserve and could possibly help avoid another tragedy such as the Judi Scanlon murder.

“Judi Scanlon told co-workers about her concerns about safety on the very morning she was murdered,” Benson said. “She raised the red flag and questioned why intensive case managers should have to go to client’s homes alone. The Judi Scanlon bill would give mental health workers the option of conducting home visits in pairs.”

Judi Scanlon was murdered by one of her mentally ill clients, Diane Wylie in November 1998. Scanlon’s daughter Kelly Scanlon-North has worked tirelessly since her mother’s murder advocating for safeguards.

“Something should have been done a long time ago to protect workers like my mother,” Scanlon-North said. “Gov. Pataki has that opportunity before him right now. I pray he’ll do the right thing and sign this bill to change the way places of employment protect their employees.”

State Senator George Maziarz of Newfane and Assemblymember Sam Hoyt of Buffalo sponsored the bill. “Mental health workers go into the trenches daily putting themselves at risk to help people in dire need,” Sen. Maziarz said. “Signing this bill into law will protect hardworking case managers whose workplaces are not only supervised office settings, but houses and apartments where, for caution’s sake, you have to expect the unexpected. Looking back, these protections should have
been on the books years ago, before Judi Scanlon ever knocked on Diane Wylie’s door.”

Assemblymember Hoyt commented, “My legislation will provide critical protection to the caseworkers who are placed daily in situations where there is considerable risk. As a state legislator, I have an obligation to provide for the well being of both mental health patients and the caseworkers who care for them. If there is any good to come of Judi Scanlon’s tragic death, it is greater protection for the caseworkers and the enhanced training that will provide better quality care for the patients and their families.”

Erie County District Attorney Frank Clark also attended today’s press conference. His office successfully prosecuted the case against Wylie who was sentenced to the maximum, 25 years to life in prison.
 

PEF, murder victim’s daughter and lawmakers to highlight need for Judi Scanlon bill to become law

Buffalo - On Monday, July 24 at 2 pm., members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) along with Kelly Scanlon-North, Erie County District Attorney Frank Clark and state Senator George Maziarz will hold a press conference to urge the governor to sign the Judi Scanlon bill (S.207 Maziarz/A.2570 Hoyt).

The press conference will take place in front of the Erie County court building at 25 Delaware Avenue.

Judi Scanlon, a PEF member, RN and intensive case manager at the Buffalo Psychiatric Center was murdered in November of 1998 while conducting a home visit to a mentally ill client in Buffalo. Judi’s daughter, Kelly Scanlon-North will speak from personal experience about the tragic loss of her mother eight years ago and why the Judi Scanlon bill is essential to providing basic protections to mental health workers.

PEF President Roger Benson will talk about PEF’s seven year battle to get the bill passed by both houses and detail the importance of getting the governor to sign it.

DA Frank Clark’s office successfully prosecuted the case against Judi’s killer. Clark will discuss the value of having workplace violence prevention measures in place.

State Senate sponsor George Maziarz of Newfane, will explain protections the bill will provide and the importance of extending crime prevention efforts to the workplace.

Brynien/ Igoe team sweeps PEF elections

Albany - Members of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) elected Ken Brynien of Cicero to the union presidency.  The official election results posted by the American Arbitration Association (AAA) show Brynien who ran on the “Members 1st” ticket, won with 7,874 votes compared to 7,024 for his challenger, Michael Del Piano of the “C-me” ticket. The results were certified by AAA Wednesday, June 28.

“I’m excited and honored the membership has shown confidence in me and my entire slate by voting us into office,” Brynien said.  “The outcome of this election proves the membership believes the union is moving in the right direction and they want to continue that path.”

President Roger Benson congratulated Brynien on his election win, promising a cooperative and helpful transition.

“It is our goal and desire to have a transition which proceeds smoothly, efficiently and seamlessly,” Benson said.  “I truly believe an orderly and professional transition to the next administration will reflect positively on the union and significantly benefit our members.”

Brynien, a PEF vice-president since 1997, has been a psychologist at the state Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities in Central New York since 1985.  The president-elect also served as the statewide chair of PEF’s Political Action Committee and was chair of the 2003 PS&T contract team. He and his wife, Cindy, plan to relocate to the Albany area.

Members also elected Brynien’s running mate Arlea Gabe Igoe, of Albany as secretary-treasurer.  Igoe, a supervisor of electronic data processing, defeated Carlos Garcia of Colonie, by a vote of 7,794 to 7,019.

Lou Matrazzo of Latham won the “Members 1st” line as a new vice president to fill the vacancy left by Brynien.

Two incumbents were returned, Joe Fox of Troy and Patricia Baker of Brooklyn, to their posts as vice presidents.

One new trustee was elected on the “Members 1st” line.  Julio Munoz of the Bronx fills Igoe’s seat.  Incumbent trustees, Olubiyi Sehindemi of the Bronx and Robert Reynolds of Chenango Bridge also ran on the “Members 1st” line.

PEF members also elected Kevin Hintz of Buffalo as new regional coordinator in Region 1, Tom Comanzo of Albany as new regional coordinator in Region 8 and Vernetta Chesimard of NYC as new regional coordinator in Region 10.

All officers will be sworn in on August 1st.
 

PEF Endorses Mark Green for Attorney General

Albany — The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) endorsed Mark Green for the position of Attorney General of New York State. The announcement was made at a noontime press conference on the steps of the state Capitol in Albany.

“No one worked harder for our endorsement or deserves it more than Mark Green,” said PEF President Roger Benson. “To us, what mattered most was who had the best record and biggest heart. Mark has become a national consumer leader who’s already an expert in nearly all aspects of what an attorney general does. He’s done the work, so he’s earned the job.

“Mark Green spent a life advocating for smart, effective government, a strong democracy and economic justice — all the things that PEF cares about,” Benson said. “We feel he will win this position because the people who know his service record, understand that Mark Green is committed to the public. Our goal is to help him get his outstanding record to the voters.”

“I am proud to have this key endorsement from the people who help make our state run," said Green. “On behalf of all New Yorkers, I want to thank PEF for taking a leadership role in working for the passage of the Work Place Violence Act. Workers need that protection and the governor needs to sign the remaining bills into law.

“Speaking of results, here’s one we really need: open contacting and opening the books on consultants,” continued Green. “As Attorney General, I’ll shine the light on those no-bid, never-ending, no-cost comparison consulting contracts that have ripped-off taxpayers for 12 years. And, any agency head that fires state workers and hires consultants should be able to prove that taxpayers benefit, which they almost never can.”

Other PEF leaders also showed their support at the press conference. They were PEF Vice President and statewide Political Action Chair Ken Brynien, PEF Vice President Pat Baker, and PEF Regional Coordinator Jemma Hanson.
 

PEF testimony highlights dangers of dually diagnosed clients slipping through the cracks

Albany - Leaders of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) testified about how our health care system fails to meet the needs of clients who are dually diagnosed with developmental and psychiatric disabilities.

PEF Vice President Ken Brynien, a psychologist in the Central New York Developmental Disabilities Services Office of the Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, (OMRDD) and PEF Vice President Pat Baker, a social worker from Kingsboro Psychiatric Center, who chairs the Office of Mental Health (OMH)

Labor-Management Committee, testified before the Assembly Standing Committee on Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities and the Assembly Task Force on People With Disabilities.

“There are significant challenges associated with filling the needs of consumers with co-existing developmental and psychiatric disabilities,” Brynien said. “There are problems of interagency coordination, short staffing and inadequate resources that allow these individuals to fall through the cracks.”

Baker compared trying to get a dually diagnosed consumer into an appropriate treatment facility with winning the Power Ball. “It can take as long as ten years to get off a waiting list and into one of these programs,” Baker testified.

“People are suffering because they are not properly diagnosed,” Baker added. “A lack of communication between OMH and OMRDD compounds the situation resulting in clients not getting the services they so desperately need.”

PEF leaders offered a number of recommendations to correct the problem.

PEF Endorses Eliot Spitzer for Governor


Albany - The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) today announced its endorsement of Eliot Spitzer to become the next Governor of New York.

"During the past eight years, Eliot Spitzer has been Attorney General and proven to be a true partner with PEF," said PEF President Roger Benson. "Spitzer has a long history of supporting PEF and is committed to public employees and understands the value and quality of services our members provide to the state's taxpayers."

"I thank PEF for their endorsement and faith in my pledge to bring fairness and accountability back to government and my dedication to confronting our problems head-on," Spitzer said during a speech to the PEF Statewide Executive Board. "The smart thing to do is to figure out how we can work together as partners to make this government work."

"The services we provide, what we do in government, is essential to our success as a society. What we need to do is revisit the notion that what we do matters," said Spitzer.

PEF's Executive Board heard from Republican candidate for Governor John Faso and Spitzer before voting overwhelmingly to endorse Spitzer for Governor.

PEF also endorsed Mark Green as the statewide candidate for Attorney General.
 

PEF’s “Workplace Violence Prevention Bill” signed by Governor

Albany - New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) President Roger E. Benson applauded the signing of PEF’s Workplace Violence Prevention bill by Governor George E. Pataki.

“The governor has led the fight to reduce violence and crime in our communities,” said Benson. “By signing the Workplace Violence Prevention bill, he is extending that effort to public-sector work sites.”

The Workplace Violence Prevention legislation requires public employers with more than 20 employees to assess risk and develop and implement a written plan of action to prevent potential workplace violence.

The bill was sponsored by State Senator Nicholas A. Spano and State Assemblymember Susan V. John.

“Workplace violence is an increasingly visible element in today's workplaces,” said Senator Spano. “I am very pleased that Governor Pataki signed this bill into law so that the working men and women of New York State have access to safe and secure workplaces.”

“Workplace violence is an ever increasing problem in today’s society,” said Assemblymember John. “As chair of the Committee on Labor, I am pleased to stand with the members of PEF, and all workers fighting to eliminate violence.

Our current economy places more and more pressure on employees, which is leading to a greater number of violent episodes and is currently the leading cause of death among women in the workplace. For the protection of all hardworking families, this legislation is the first line of defense for their safety and I congratulate the governor for his decision to sign this bill into law.”

“Each year, thousands of public employees working to provide services in state facilities and institutions are assaulted by clients in their care,” Benson said. “This legislation will establish minimum standards to help prevent that.”

PEF mounted an aggressive Stop Workplace Violence Campaign earlier this year urging the passage of three bills including the Workplace Violence Prevention bill. PEF will continue to push the two remaining bills; The Judi Scanlon bill (S.207 Maziarz/A.2570 Hoyt) directs that an Office of Mental Health employee who is required to enter the residence of a person with serious mental illness can request to be accompanied by another employee for safety reasons.

The Workplace Injury Disclosure and Accountability bill, (S.6480 Robach/A.9692 John) amends the Civil Service Law to require that the state Department of Civil Service prepare an annual report about injury rates among state employees due to workplace injuries in state agencies and the costs incurred by the state as a result of those injuries.

PEF URGES GOVERNOR TO SIGN WORKPLACE VIOLENCE PREVENTION BILL

Albany - The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) is urging the governor to help make worksites across the state safer by signing t