A PEF Telephone Town Hall held on May 8, 2024, brought together PEF President Wayne Spence, Vice Presidents Randi DiAntonio and Darlene Williams, PEF Legislative Director Patrick Lyons and PEF Contract Administration Director Debra Greenberg to discuss budget accomplishments, the future of the Fund Our Future campaign, and more. Here are some general time codes indicating what was discussed and when:
- 00:00 – 06:55: Update about ongoing efforts of the Fund Our Future campaign, and the future of the campaign.
- 06:56 – 12:35: Budget discussion on ending lag payroll system and making New York an attractive employer.
- 12:35 – 15:20: Budget accomplishments regarding mental health beds, keeping New York out of the Nursing Compact, and avoiding cuts to retiree healthcare.
- 15:21 – 17:40: New York State Museum, State Archives and State Library earned additional funding in the budget.
- 17:41 – 19:04: Design Build budget accomplishment.
- 19:05 – 28:15: More changes to Tier 6 contained in State budget and discussion of future pension plans reforms.
- 28:16 – 30:15: Second $400 dental stipend for members being processed.
- 30:16 – 35:50: Details about the State’s new dental insurance carrier, Anthem Blue Cross, and potential network changes.
- 35:51 – 38:40: Updates about agency issues concerning the $600 Higher Education Differential payments for PS&T members.
- 38:41 – 41:50: Article 15 tuition reimbursement updates, increases and improvements.
- 41:51 – 44:30: License reimbursement updates, increases and closing remarks from President Spence.
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