Legislative Directors,
As you well know, NYSPEC’s membership has grown significantly over the years, and public employee unions and groups continue to apply for membership.
We have been in the forefront of key legislation and we have established a strong voice on behalf of all our members.
A testament to our importance was clearly exhibited at our 44th Annual Legislative Breakfast in Albany on Tuesday, March 22. There was standing room only as the Hart lounge at “The Egg” was filled with members who made the trip to Albany to be a part of the event and show support for our organization.
It was a proud moment for me, indeed for the first time in my 22-year tenure as NYSPEC Chairman, to introduce our Governor, Kathy Hochul, to address the body in attendance. Included in her remarks was a commitment to continue to fight for bonuses for frontline workers, and to work to get more people interested in becoming public employees. She was answered by the body with a well-deserved standing ovation.
The day could not have been scripted any better. Key government officials took time out of their busy schedules on a busy legislative session day to address our membership. One after the other they offered praise and thanks for our members response to the pandemic. They also commented repeatedly on the need to finally address some tier inequities, which message was received with applause from our membership.
I remember the years when NYSPEC held the annual breakfast in a meeting room off the concourse, which made it all the more special this year to be able to return to Albany and once again conduct our event in a grand space. The recurrence of interaction among so many key government officials and key union leaders was gratifying, to say the least.
I am honored to be the Chairman of this great organization, and I am grateful that so many of our members came to support the event. The legislators needed to see a packed room because it sends a message that we are united in all our efforts to advance legislation to enhance the lives of all public employees and their families.
It was a great day for the New York State Public Employee Conference, and I thank every member organization for your continued support. Together we will continue to grow and excel!
In Unity,
Peter D. Meringolo
NYSPEC
Chairman
