|
|
Mr. Edward Donnelly
Legislative Director
NYS AFL-CIO
10/24/2005
I am writing to you on behalf of the men and women of the New York State University Police (NYSUP) Officers Union- Local
1792, Council 82-AFSCME, AFL-CIO. I am asking for the AFL-CIOs Legislative Department's Priority Support for 2006, as being
the utmost importance to our membership.
As you may already know, the members of Local 1792 are sworn New York State Police Officers serving at SUNY colleges and
universities statewide. As such, we are responsible for enforcing all NYS Vehicle and Traffic laws, Penal Laws, and local
ordinances existing within our jurisdiction. In addition, NYSUP enforce the various rules and policies at each university.
NYSUP Officers are currently trained at regional zone academies and thus receive the identical course of training that
any other officer of any local municipal police agency receives. Indeed, may of our officers instruct at these same academies.
The danger our officers face on any given vehicle stop or citizen encounters are the same dangers faced by other law enforcement
officers nationwide. Our officers also respond to aid and assist the officers of our neighboring county and municipal agencies
as the need arises.
Still, there are remains one vast difference between our officers and our counterparts. The men and women of the NYSUP
do not currently enjoy the ability to retire at half pay after twenty-five years of service. It is a fact that the average
life expectancy for a police officer today is 56 years of age. The detrimental stress related physiological effects of the
job are well documented. To effectively police an environment comprised, in the main, of 18-23 year old persons requires
the maintenance of a young and vigorous police force.
Finally, I am writing to request that the AFL-CIO's Legislative Department issue Priority Support for A.3358/S.3065A,
which would place the members of the NYSUP (sworn members only) into the NYS Police and Fire Retirement System, allowing retirement
at half pay after twenty-five years of dedication and service. Last year this bill passed both the NYS Assembly and Senate
unanimously but was ultimately vetoed by the Governor. We have since reconstructed the bill and are now in compliance with
the reasons expressed in his veto rationale. Thank you in advance for your assistance in this vital matter.
Sincerely,
MEMBER'S NAME
WORK LOCATION
|
|
|
