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County Officials Applaud Governor Paterson for Veto that Protects Property Taxpayers and Local Governments
September 5, 2008
Today, Governor David Paterson vetoed a bill that would have placed yet another unfunded mandate on the backs of property taxpayers and would have significantly limited government's ability to address health insurance coverage in the public sector.
The bill would have prohibited counties and all municipal employers from changing health insurance coverage for public employee retirees without a corresponding change negotiated by organized labor for active employees.
“The language prohibiting the diminution of employer contributions would not have allowed a public employer to explore other more cost effective health insurance coverage options,” said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario. “With this veto, Governor Paterson demonstrates he understands the direct correlation between the budgetary and policy decisions made in the State’s Capitol and the plight of New York’s local governments and property taxpayers.”
The bill would have also created a 12 member taskforce to study retiree health insurance. Under the measure, local governments would not have had a seat on this taskforce.
“This is an issue that needs to have a public debate. It needs to be studied and discussed by the right people sitting around one table. The Governor’s decision to address this issue through an executive order is the most appropriate manner to balance the concerns raised by organized labor and public employers,” said Acquario.
“County governments across the state remain committed to health insurance for their workforce, including retirees. Using executive powers, Governor Paterson has taken a responsible and prudent next step to address head on an important issue facing both public and private employers,” said NYSAC President Lucille M. McKnight.
The New York State Association of Counties is a bipartisan municipal association serving all 62 counties of New York State including the City of New York. Organized in 1925, NYSAC's mission is to represent, educate and advocate for member counties and the thousands of elected and appointed county officials who serve the public.
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