PBA of New York State Ratifies Proposed Contract

Sunday, January 01, 2012
The Police Benevolent Association of New York State (PBANYS) today announced that its membership has ratified a proposed contract by a margin of 965 in favor (96 percent); 36 opposed (4 percent). The PBA of New York State (www.pbanys.org) represents 1,100 law-enforcement officers working as University, Environmental Conservation, and Park Police; as well as state Forest Rangers. The term of the contract covers a 10 year period dating to April 2005, the agreement includes retro-active wage and compensation benefits for active and retired members. “This overwhelming endorsement puts an end to years of uncertainty, anxiety and frustration for our members and their families,” said Manuel M. Vilar, President of the PBANYS. “From the beginning, the PBA negotiating team was committed to negotiating a contract that reflected the needs of its members, and pledged that the merits of the proposal would be negotiated by its members. We are grateful that Governor Cuomo and his administration recognized our willingness to negotiate a fair and reasonable contract.” “By working together and taking into account the fiscal realities facing our state, we have been able to agree on a contract for these members of law enforcement who work each day to protect New Yorkers,” Governor Cuomo said. “This ratified contract recognizes that shared sacrifice is needed, and I thank President Vilar for his leadership.” The PBA of New York was recognized by the state in August 2011 to negotiate on behalf of the Agency Law Enforcement Services members. Ninety percent of eligible PBANYS members participated in the ratification process. “It is gratifying to know that in less than six months from the date it began representing the women and men of the PBA of New York State, it was able to deliver a contract that previously eluded our members, and will provide security for their families and their futures.” In May 2011, the membership reject an early proposal, the creation of the PBA of New York state stemmed from member unrest and disappointment in a proposal that failed to adequately consider their input and feedback. With the contract concerns now resolved, the PBA will be committed to ensuring sufficient police staffing levels are maintained, protecting its members and acheiving professional law-enforcement parity.