March for Main Street

New York faces an enormous budget problem. CSEA does not question that. We also don't question responsible action to address it early. We do object to Gov. David Paterson's approach, however.

The governor keeps saying that 'everything is on the table' but his proposals have only been about cutting back essential public services and shifting more burden to working New Yorkers.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: Make Better Choices

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am a CSEA member and I write to oppose your slash and burn approach to the state budget crisis, especially your plan to reduce my pay. I work hard, pay taxes, and contribute to the economy and in no way should I be expected to pay for the misdeeds of corporate greed.

There are better ways to solve the budget crisis. There are REAL alternatives and I urge you to approach the crises wisely without harming New Yorkers, who are already struggling to make ends meet.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
November 24, 2008

Background Information

Jobs and services across New York are at serious risk as Gov. David Paterson and state lawmakers grapple with how to deal with a growing state budget deficit.

CSEA is in the thick of it, fighting Paterson's demand to reopen the state contracts and further lag state employee pay, along with massive mid-year cuts in aid to local governments and school districts.

New York faces some serious economic challenges, but the governor and state lawmakers must find an even approach to protect jobs and services. The governor's proposals lack serious consideration of alternative savings and revenues.

"The governor keeps saying that 'everything is on the table' but his proposals have only been about cutting back essential public services and shifting more burden to working New Yorkers," CSEA President Danny Donohue said.

Worse, a Nov. 18 special legislative budget session called by the governor broke down without any resolution. Paterson plans to release his state budget on Dec. 16 - more than a month earlier than usual. Even before the events of the special session, it was expected that next year's budget proposal would include unprecedented cuts and other draconian measures.

"When the governor cuts aid to schools or local governments it means services will have to be cut or property taxes will be raised," Donohue said. "Let's also be clear here: no one should have any doubt about CSEA's commitment to finding real alternatives," Donohue said.

"CSEA is gearing up one of the greatest challenges in the union's nearly 100-year history," Donohue said. "Every CSEA member needs to be involved in this fight for better choices because it's your job, your community and your future at risk!"

Several billion in better choices
CSEA has offered a number of meaningful suggestions to Gov. David Paterson on ways the state could save, generate or access several billion dollars to address the budget situation.

Tap the state's Tax Stabilization Fund: There is more than a billion dollars available in this "Rainy Day fund."

Enforce the law and collect state cigarette taxes from the Native American Reservations: Nearly $1 billion annually is at stake.

Pursue a prescription drug purchasing agreement through Canada: Several localities are already using this option that could save $400 million.

Reform Child Health Plus Program for greater fairness:Set contributions and co-pay levels at what state employees are required to pay.

Seek a public/private partnership for the Empire State Plaza Art Collection: $1 billion, hanging around in Albany.