About the PBA

Established in 2011, the Police Benevolent Association of New York State (PBA of New York  State), is a law enforcement labor union representing the interests of approximately 1,200 members of the New York State Agency Police Services Unit (APSU).  

The PBA of New York State is the exclusive bargaining agent for the New York State University (SUNY) Police, the New York State Environmental Conservation Police, the New York State Park Police, and the New York State Forest Rangers.  Our members police and protect New York State’s public universities and colleges; state parks and historic sites; and they enforce state laws and protect our lands and forests and ensure environmental safety and quality throughout the state. 


Our Mission

PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

The purpose and objectives of this Association shall be as follows:

  • To ensure that the protection of our Police Officers’ rights and freedoms are preserved;
  • To study police problems in general, particularly those pertaining to all members of the Association, and to utilize all legal means to bring about a solution to these problems;
  • To promote a friendly spirit among all Police Officers and to help them in any way that is not contrary and detrimental to the By-Laws of this Association and to give aid, assistance, and support to Police Officers and police organizations whenever possible;
  • To elevate moral, intellectual and social conditions of its members and to promote goodwill among children so they may become better citizens;
  • To encourage, propose and support legislation for the betterment of working conditions and to oppose legislation detrimental to Police Officers;
  • To uphold the Constitution of the United States of America and the State of New York.
  • To negotiate, provide support and implement the collective bargaining agreement of the members of the PBA.
  • To provide legal, staff and support services to the members of the PBA as the Executive Committee deem appropriate.

History

 

In 2011, after an extended period of dissatisfaction with their previous union, action was taken by several bargaining unit members to become an independent PBA. A majority of the ALES members filed a request with the New York State Public Employees Relations Board (PERB) seeking an election authorizing the PBA of New York State to represent them on matters ranging from contract negotiations, to legislative affairs, to local management of grievances.  The incumbent union, after seeing a concerted campaign for independence mounted by a determined leadership team and nearly unanimous rank-and-file membership, decided to step aside and not contest the desert. The PBA of NYS was recognized by the New York Public Employment Relations Board as the exclusive bargaining agent of the PBA on August 19, 2011. 

 

On December 22, 2011, the PBA of NYS, after just four months in existence, secured a historic ten-year collective bargaining agreement that was ultimately ratified by 96% of the PBA membership.  The PBA continues enforcing the terms of that agreement and ensuring a safe and positive working environment for our members.