OMCE Staff Opportunity:  Grievance and Legal Defense Team
April 19, 2021  

We pride ourselves on the professional and effective representation of OMCE members in employee relations matters including grievances, interrogations, and disciplinary matters.  OMCE Grievance and Legal Defense team staff are seasoned labor relations practitioners with relevant New York State agency or union experience.  

OMCE needs additional per diem staff to help protect the rights of OMCE members.  On an “as needed basis” Grievance and Legal Defense Team staff are assigned to represent the interests of OMCE members in both virtual and in-person settings.  Candidates must have hands-on experience as a public sector human resources or labor relations practitioner and be able to:  work independently, travel as assigned, effectively use virtual meeting software, and efficiently prepare documents using MS Word.  Interested?  Please submit your resume to nysomce@gmail.com to the attention of George Velesko.  

NON-M/C Employee Deferred Salary Increase Payment Schedule
April 19, 2021  

The Office of the State Comptroller’s Payroll Services Division has scheduled the processing and payment of the previously deferred 2020 salary increases for the following bargaining units. Payroll Bulletins will be released as soon as possible. Due to the large volume of programming, testing, and manual work required to pay these increases retroactively, all bargaining units (BU’s) cannot be processed simultaneously. Dates for the remaining bargaining units not listed below, such as M/C (06), have not been set.  Further, it is NOT anticipated that processing and payment dates for M/C employees will fall either on or before the dates listed below.  To that end, we urge continued patience on your part.  Once a Budget Bulletin is issued for M/C employees, we will post a link to that document.  It will likely address issues regarding timing and the retroactive payment of longevities and performance advances (steps).

A=Administrative Payroll
I=Institutional Payroll

POSTPONEMENT:  Virtual OMCE Meeting for April 20, 2021, postponed
April 19, 2021  

Please note:  The virtual meetings originally scheduled for April 20th at noon and 5:30 p.m. have been postponed as the anticipated Budget Bulletin for M/C employee compensation has not been finalized.  Without such information at our disposal, we are unable to definitively address many of your concerns.  Once additional information about the pending issuance of a Budget Bulletin is forthcoming, we will post a new meeting notice.  Please know that we remain in regular contact with our counterparts in Governor’s Office of Employee Relations, the Office of the State Comptroller, and the Division of the Budget on this matter.  

In the meantime, we continue to push our legislative agenda which includes retiree parity payments, salary increase equity with union-represented employees, expansion of longevity payments to all M/C employees, and enhanced civil service protections.  

Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Budget Update
April 7, 2021

In announcing the agreed upon budget provisions today the Governor included a statement that he would pay state workers the delayed payments that were withheld last year (April 2020) and thanked state workers for doing important work and showing up to serve others. The announcement further indicated full funding for the scheduled salary increases and retroactive pay to approximately 120,000 state workers, including M/C employees.  This is good news! There are no details yet! There has been no discussion of salary increases for April 2021.

The budget does not include the Governor's proposals to eliminate IRMAA reimbursement, cap Medicare part B reimbursement. The budget does not include a retirement incentive for state employees.

More specific information will be posted as it becomes available. 

Budget Update
April 6, 2021

**The Governor, Assembly Speaker and Senate Majority Leader announced agreement on the budget Tuesday afternoon.  Legislation was also introduced Tuesday afternoon (A6773/S6081) to provide for emergency appropriations for the period April 1-April 8, 2021 which authorizes the Comptroller to make payments for the purposes described, including personal service and non-personal service for executive branch, judiciary and legislative employees. This includes payroll and fringe benefits for the April 1-April 8, 2021 period.

**There is no official information related to payment of the  2020 M/C "Deferred 2% salary increase, performance advances and longevity payments" or the 2021 M/C  performance advances and longevity payments that has been shared with us. Please note that in 2019 the Budget Bulletin issuing instructions on payment of these items was dated April 17, 2019.

**When we have official information/instructions related to 2021 M/C performance advances, longevity payments and the 2020 "deferred payments" it will be posted

Telecommuting Pilot Project
April 6, 2021

The pilot telecommuting programs for CSEA, DC37, UUP, PEF and M/C employees are extended through Friday, July 2, 2021.

OMCE 2021 Board of Directors Nominations Open
April 2, 2021

Please see the attached notice (PDF) describing the OMCE Board of Directors Nomination Process

Correction: Paid Leave for COVID-19 Vaccination Appointments
March 17, 2021

Please note: our previous posting contains an error regarding paid leave for COVID-19 vaccine appointments. If an employee is required to have two doses at two different times, they are entitled to up to two instances of paid leave to cover both absences. Please see the following language from the NYS Department of Civil Service below:

"Employees who received a vaccination during work hours prior to March 12, 2021, are required to charge leave accruals or be granted a leave without pay. The appointing authority may require satisfactory medical documentation that the employee’s absence was for the purpose of the COVID-19 Vaccination. Employees are entitled to a leave of absence for COVID-19 vaccinations scheduled during the employees’ regular work hours.  Employees who undergo vaccinations outside their regular work schedules do so on their own time.  For example, employees are not granted compensatory time off for vaccinations that occur on pass days or holidays. Up to four hours of paid leave is allowed for each dose of the vaccination. Accordingly, employees who receive a vaccination that is administered in two doses would get up to four hours of paid leave for each dose.  Travel time (based on travel to and from the employee’s worksite) is included in this four-hour cap.  Absence beyond the four-hour caps must be charged to leave credits."

Legislative Updates
March 15, 2021

The following actions are of interest to M/C employees.

First, the Governor has signed a bill EFFECTIVE TODAY, March 15, 2021, that allows an employee up to 4 hours of paid leave to obtain a COVID-19 vaccination if that vaccination appointment requires that an employee absent themselves from work during scheduled working hours to obtain that vaccine or vaccines. This law does NOT require the employer to grant paid leave of up to 4 hours for EACH absence if your vaccine requires TWO doses at TWO different times (e.g., Pfizer or Moderna vaccines). Accordingly, the 4 hours of paid leave would be cumulative for both appointments for a two-dose regimen. This benefit is not retroactive for those employees who used leave prior to March 15, 2021 to obtain a vaccine or vaccines.

Second, the Governor has signed a bill to assist the survivors of State employees who died due to COVID-19 contracted in the workplace. The accidental death benefit extension will provide the families of these employees with a financial safety net by paying a monthly defined benefit payment equal to 50 percent of the deceased members’ final average salary versus the ordinary death benefit that only provides a one-time payment equal to three times the members’ final average salary. 

Third, the State Senate and Assembly have excluded raising health care costs on retirees (and by extension future retirees) from their single house budget bills by opposing three separate items in the proposed executive budget. These items called for an end to the Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts (IRMAA) reimbursement, a cap on Medicare Part B reimbursements, and a sliding scale of retiree health care costs for new State workers. The first two measures impact current retirees and the last one harms recruitment and retention of current employees. The legislators have consistently fought these proposals in past budgets and have once again sided with the interests of State employees by preventing the State from balancing its budget on the backs of retirees.

Finally, the State Senate and Assembly are including a retirement incentive for public employees in their single house budget bills. This retirement incentive proposal is similar to those proposed in recent legislation and similar to the retirement incentive program last offered in 2010. Our legislative liaison has indicated that the presence of this proposal in the single house budget bills is NOT indicative of inclusion in the final executive budget. The Governor has not, in any way, signaled his interest in approving a retirement incentive program. We also note that such a program, by law, requires that any pension enhancement be funded by millions of dollars paid to the State’s retirement fund. Given that fact and the fact that the State has lost over 8,000 employees since March 2020, we are NOT optimistic that the passage of a retirement incentive program is a given despite the support of both the Senate and Assembly. Even if a retirement incentive program were to pass the Governor would, as in past years, control the number and type of titles deemed eligible to participate.

Federal Aid to the State of New York approved
March 11, 2021

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer signed the $1.9 trillion Covid-19 economic relief bill Wednesday, March 10, 2021, on Capitol Hill to officially send the legislation to the White House. President Biden plans to sign the bill into law on Friday, March 12, 2021, at the White House.

How does this help M/C employees?

As the economy shut down to halt the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the State of New York suffered a severe budgetary shortfall due to the loss of tax revenue. With approximately $12.6 billion of unrestricted economic aid now at its disposal, the State can erase most if not all of its revenue shortfall in the current Fiscal Year (FY 2021) which ends this March 31 st . Further, Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s review of the Governor’s 30-day amendments and the amended Financial Plan, found that federal aid, better than expected tax receipts, and other actions are expected by the Division of the Budget (DOB) to produce surpluses of $1.6 billion in FY 2021 and $676 million in FY 2022. 

Accordingly, the State is poised to regain a secure fiscal footing and is now able to reverse its past draconian actions that negatively affected M/C employees. To that end, the State must take the following actions with regard to eligible M/C employees:

• Immediately and fully pay longevity lump sum payments and performance advances (steps) due in past fiscal year (FY 2021)

• Pay longevity lump sum payments and performance advances (steps) on time in the fiscal year beginning April 1, 2021 (FY 2022)

• Immediately and fully pay the deferred but promised 2% General Salary Increase due April 1, 2021

• Support, pass, and implement Retiree Parity Legislation to restore a portion of lost pension income to retirees hurt by past State salary deferrals (S.2866/A.4885).

In the time it takes for you to read this posting, you can make your opinion known to YOUR State legislators through our Action Line feature on this website. If you have not already done so, please click the Action Line link in the left margin of the website and let YOUR voice be heard.

If you have not yet become a member of OMCE, please take this opportunity to join our numbers and make our collective voice stronger. Visit the membership enrollment link now to strengthen our ability to advocate and work for you!

OMCE Advocates for Compensation Parity
March 10, 2021

OMCE continues to fight for full restoration of Longevity Payments and Performance Advances (Step Increases) that were due M/C employees in 2020. We are also working to ensure that the Fiscal Year 2022 budget (which begins April 1 of this year) includes funding for retroactive 2020 payments and those same payments due in April 2021.

We are in contact with the Division of the Budget, the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations, and our State legislators regarding these payments. We have again written the Governor himself to push for the fair and equitable treatment of M/C employees. A link to this letter is HERE

OMCE needs YOU to join this fight! Please click on the link on our website (nysomce.org) that reads Action Line to complete an e-letter that will automatically be sent to your State Senator and Assembly Member. In under two minutes time, you can communicate with your legislators about making the fair and equal treatment of State employees a reality.

You may also reach out to the Governor via email from your personal phone, computer, or device to express your own concerns about M/C compensation using the following link: https://www.governor.ny.gov/content/governor-contact-form
DO NOT USE YOUR WORK COMPUTER OR WORK EMAIL to contact Governor Cuomo!!

Thank you for joining the fight for compensation parity! And thank you for being a member of OMCE. If you are not a member of OMCE, please consider joining by visiting our website (nysomce.org) or by call 1-800-828-OMCE.

Exclusive Offering ONLY for OMCE members: OMCE Trauma Coverage Program

We are proud to offer a comprehensive Trauma Coverage program with benefits for Income Reimbursement, Expense Reimbursement, 24/7 Trauma Counseling, and Accidental Death Benefit for incidents that occur on and off the job, underwritten by Lloyd’s of London. Covered incidents include Assaults, Workplace Trauma, Infectious Disease contracted at work (including COVID-19), and Injuries from Acts of Terror. These unique benefits are not offered through any other form of insurance or any Employee Assistance Program. Choose one of four plans that is best for you and your family. Plans start at only $10 a month! Annual benefits available from $50,000 to $200,000! In these times, this coverage could provide the extra peace of mind that you need at an affordable rate. If you work at a facility or in an institutional setting, this may be of particular interest to you. You must be an OMCE member to enroll, so please contact OMCE at 1-800-828-OMCE to enroll as a member and obtain additional information about this program.

Invitation: March 2021 OMCE Teleconference for M/C Employees

Join us on Wednesday, March 17, 2021, to discuss developments in State government, our legislative agenda, and the count down to a State budget. We encourage both members and non-members to join us for an OMCE informational teleconference. In keeping with efforts to maintain social distancing standards during the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be offering two teleconferences for M/C employees in order to provide you with the latest up-to-date news and for you to share your concerns with our staff.

Please join us at one of the two following teleconference sessions:

Wednesday, March 17, 2021, 12 noon to 12:30 p.m.

OR

Wednesday March 17, 2021, 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Please select the time that is best suited to your schedule. For our teleconferences there is a maximum number of participants that can be accommodated on each call. So please call to confirm your participation early so as not to be shut out of your desired time slot. Call OMCE to reserve at 800-828-OMCE or 518-456-5241. Without a reservation you will not be provided with a call-in number and participant code for teleconference access. If we are over-subscribed, we will promptly schedule another call-in.

Learn why your membership in OMCE is so vitally important at this juncture. We look forward to talking with you soon!

BENEFITS UP and PREMIUMS DOWN for RETIREE Vision Programs from EyeMed
February 22, 2021

In our ongoing effort to bring valuable benefits to the OMCE membership, we have successfully negotiated two exciting changes for the upcoming EyeMed vision contract that is exclusively available to OMCE retiree members:

Beginning April 1, 2021:

• Frames – you can replace frames every 12 months instead of every 24 months.

• Dependents – coverage is now available for dependents to age 26.

This means that you can get eye exams, new lenses AND frames EVERY 12 months! Additionally, the premium for this enhanced benefit has been reduced! In this age where premiums only go up year after year, our EyeMed program has never been more affordable. Better benefits at a reduced premium! Why wait a year for a complete new set of eyewear? If you are about to retire, make the most of your benefits in retirement and compare our EyeMed program to the NYS vision plan available through COBRA coverage. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the affordability and value EyeMed offers.

Additional Benefits

Don’t forget - this plan includes a LASIK benefit, a discount for hearing exams and hearing aids, along with additional discounts at participating providers after the benefit has been used. NYS’ vision plan coverage does NOT include these benefits!

Trisha Hollister of Upstate Benefit Planning is happy to assist you with any plan question or if you would like to add a dependent. She can be reached at 518-505-7901 or by email at thollister@ubplanning.com.

 Please remember an annual eye exam is an easy yet vital way to help ensure your overall health and wellness.

OMCE Associate (Retiree) Membership Dues Discounted
January 29, 2021

Effective February 1, 2021, new retiree members and renewing retiree members are eligible to receive discounted dues for multiple year memberships in OMCE!

By starting or renewing your retiree membership (Associate level) for either 3 or 5 years, you can save time and effort as well as money! This option does not apply to active employees of the State of New York.

Annual Associate (Retiree) memberships remain at $45. A three-year membership at $110 offers a $25 savings while a five-year membership at $175 saves $50.

We encourage you to take advantage of these savings! If you are a current Associate (Retiree) member, invoices for memberships due for renewal beginning in February will include this discount option.

NYS Executive Budget Update
January 20, 2021

Governor Cuomo released his Fiscal Year 2022 budget for the year beginning April 1, 2021. The following is a concise discussion of what this budget means for OMCE members. As we comb through 1000s of pages of budget documents additional updates will be available on this website.

The Governor’s budget is predicated upon two different scenarios: receiving $6 billion in federal aid or receiving $15 billion in federal aid. The Governor insists that the latter figure is justified based upon the loss of revenue to New York State due to the federal government’s responsibility for mismanaging the nation’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting difficulties suffered by this State. Should a $15 billion federal aid package not be approved, NYS will consider legal options.

Of interest to OMCE membership:

•  Both budget scenarios cited above are structured to avoid employee layoffs.

• The hiring freeze will continue as the Governor sees it as an alternative to layoffs.

• The deferral of salary increases will continue under both scenarios though a more generous federal aid package will likely result in sooner payment of deferred salary increases. If little federal aid is forthcoming, payment of deferred salary increases may be delayed until 2023.

• No mention of restoration of withheld/C longevity payments or performance advances (steps) is included in the budget.

• The State (again) seeks to reduce retiree health benefits by: eliminating taxpayer subsidy for the Medicare Part B Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts (IRMAA) for "High-Income" State retirees; capping State reimbursement of the Medicare Part B Standard Premium for State retirees; and implementing differential health care premium contributions for new civilian hires based upon years of service.

• In addition to facility closures announced in December 2020, DOCCS will be expected to lose up to 800 positions. This does not rule out the possibility of additional facility closures to reach that staff reduction target.

• OCFS will close four facilities in the coming fiscal year resulting in a reduction of 285 positions.

• OMH is slated to lose 446 positions through attrition and reassignments during the fiscal year.

• OMH and OASAS will formally merge as one agency.

• Additional positions will be filled at the DOH to assist in Medicaid activities while a proposed Office of Cannabis Management will require over 200 positions to implement an adult recreational cannabis program.

We remain in contact with DOB and GOER and push for the retroactive restoration of performance advances and longevity payments. We also remain opposed, along with other organizations and unions, to attacks on retiree health insurance costs. Please check back regularly. Additional budget information may be obtained through the NYS Division of the Budget website at: budget.ny.gov

UNION SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
January 20, 2021

Applications now are being accepted for the 2021 OPEIU educational scholarships. All dues-paying OMCE members are encouraged to apply. Details, rules and applications can be found at OPEIU.org under the Member Resources link, as well as on the OPEIU app.

Scholarship opportunities include the Howard Coughlin Memorial Scholarship for OPEIU members and dependents, and the John Kelly Labor Studies Scholarship for OPEIU members who are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in labor studies, industrial relations and union leadership and administration. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 Romeo Corbeil/Gilles Beauregard Memorial Scholarship Summer Camp has been canceled.

ALL applications must be received by OMCE no later than March 15, 2021. Applications received after that date will not be considered. Applications must be mailed to: NYS OMCE, 5 Pine West Plaza, Suite 513, Albany, NY 12205- 5587.

Full details, rules and applications are available at OPEIU.org under the Member Resources link. Apply today!

NOTICE: January 7 th EVENT RESCHEDULED TO January 12th, 2021!

If you have a reservation for January 7 th , please email us at nysomce@gmail.com to confirm your continued interest in participating on the rescheduled date of January 12 th . Thank you!

Invitation: January 2021 OMCE Teleconference for M/C Employees

The annual State of the State message will be given by Governor Cuomo on January 11, 2021. Join us on January 12, 2021, to discuss his message and what it means for M/C employees! In addition to the Governor’s proposals, we will also be discussing developments at both the State and federal level, OMCE’s legislative agenda, and much more. We encourage both members and non-members to join us for an OMCE informational teleconference. In keeping with efforts to maintain social distancing standards during the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be offering two teleconferences for M/C employees in order to provide you with the latest up-to-date news and for you to share your concerns with our staff.

Please join us at one of the two following teleconference sessions:

Tuesday, January 12, 2021, 12 noon to 12:30 p.m.

OR

Tuesday, January 12, 2021, 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Please select the time that is best suited to your schedule. For our teleconferences there is a maximum number of participants that can be accommodated on each call. So please call to confirm your participation early so as not to be shut out of your desired time slot. Call OMCE to reserve at 800-828-OMCE or 518-456-5241. Without a reservation you will not be provided with a call-in number and participant code for teleconference access. If we are over-subscribed, we will promptly schedule another call-in.

Learn why your membership in OMCE is so vitally important. We look forward to talking with you soon!

Telecommuting Pilot Program Extension
December 29, 2020

The Statewide Telecommuting Pilot Program has been extended through April 2, 2021. Details of the program are included in the following link:
http://www.nysomce.org/pdf/202003_Pilot_Telecommuting_Bulletin_GOER.pdf

Invitation: January 2021 OMCE Teleconference for M/C Employees

The annual State of the State message will be given by Governor Cuomo on January 6, 2021. Join us on January 7, 2021, to discuss his message and what it means for M/C employees! In addition to the Governor’s proposals, we will also be discussing developments at both the State and federal level, OMCE’s legislative agenda, and much more. We encourage both members and non-members to join us for an OMCE informational teleconference. In keeping with efforts to maintain social distancing standards during the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be offering two teleconferences for M/C employees in order to provide you with the latest up-to-date news and for you to share your concerns with our staff.

Please join us at one of the two following teleconference sessions:

Thursday, January 7, 2021, 12 noon to 12:30 p.m.

OR

Thursday, January 7, 2021, 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Please select the time that is best suited to your schedule. For our teleconferences there is a maximum number of participants that can be accommodated on each call. So please call to confirm your participation early so as not to be shut out of your desired time slot. Call OMCE to reserve at 800-828-OMCE or 518-456-5241. Without a reservation you will not be provided with a call-in number and participant code for teleconference access. If we are over-subscribed, we will promptly schedule another call-in.

Learn why your membership in OMCE is so vitally important. We look forward to talking with you soon!

ANNUAL LEAVE ACCRUALS AND LATS
December 23, 2020

As we wrote on this past December 1st, the upcoming Annual Leave expiration date of December 31, 2020, has been extended through December 31, 2021 by the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations (GOER). Any unused Annual Leave accruals in excess of 300 hours at the close of business of December 31, 2020, will not expire as previously scheduled.

We have been advised by OMCE members that the Leave and Accrual Tracking System (LATS) is displaying a warning to M/C employees of potential Annual Leave accrual loss effective December 31, 2020. Please ignore this warning; GOER indicates that the warning was programmed prior to the extension of the Annual Leave expiration date and cannot be removed at this time. If you believe that LATS has in any way modified your Annual Leave accruals after December 31, 2020, counter to GOER’s stated policy change, please contact your Human Resources office with that issue. If they are unable to resolve that matter, please contact OMCE immediately at 518-456-5241 and we will intervene on your behalf with GOER.

Scholarship Recipients Announced
December 16, 2020

OMCE is pleased to announce the recipients of the M3 Technology scholarship awards. Five children or grandchildren of OMCE members have been selected through a random drawing and will receive a check for $1,000. This scholarship is made possible through the generous support of M3 Technology, our partner in providing insurance benefits to OMCE members and their families. The scholarship recipients are:

Calin A. Maguire
Dillon Clarke
Laura Sweezy
Christian DaCosta
Morgan Connelly

We are happy to let you know that other scholarships are available due to our affiliation with OPEIU, Local 153, AFL-CIO. Please see the following link for details and deadlines: https://www.opeiu.org/MemberResources/UnionBenefits/UnionScholarships.aspx

Annual Leave Accruals Expiration Date Extended!
December 1, 2020

The Governor’s Office of Employee Relations issued the following regarding the extension of annual leave accruals expiration date. We are sharing their complete communications about this matter in its entirety below:

"GOER is pleased to announce that we have reached agreement with all unions on an extension of the upcoming annual leave expiration date of December 31, 2020.  As you may recall, we negotiated agreements allowing extended carryover of unused annual leave through the end of this calendar year.  

The new agreements apply to employees who were (or are currently) engaged in COVID-19 response efforts or unable to use annual leave due to ongoing response efforts and replace any contractually agreed upon expiration date from April 1, 2020 through December 30, 2021.  Further, this extension applies to management/confidential (M/C) employees who would otherwise forfeit unused annual leave on January 1, 2021.   

All such unused annual leave can now be carried through December 31, 2021.

At a later date, we will provide additional administrative details."

Open Letter to the Governor
November 30, 2020

Of the many M/C employee issues that deserve immediate attention, the matter of equitable salary treatment remains a primary concern. Please see the letter HERE. We cannot allow our gains towards salary parity to dissolve. Our resolve to continue to push for retroactive restoration of the deferred performance advances (steps) and longevity payments is unabated. Our advocacy of this matter with the Governor, his Office of Employee Relations, and the Legislature continues. But we need your intervention as well. We ask that if you have not already done so, please use the Action Line link on our website to electronically file your letter with your legislators. Thank you!

OPEIU Identity Protection Benefit
November 25, 2020

Through our affiliation with OPEIU we have been able to offer a comprehensive identity protection benefit to our members at NO COST. OPEIU has selected a new firm for this benefit, IdentityIQ. Previous coverage via InfoArmor has therefore expired. Effective immediately, IdentityIQ will now provide an identity protection benefit which includes stronger protections and coverage for both you AND your family members living in your household at NO COST.

Starting today, all members should visit OpeiuIDProtect.com or call 800-637-5680 to enroll yourself and your family living in your household. If you were previously enrolled with InfoArmor, you will need to now re-enroll with IdentityIQ to continue your FREE benefit.

The benefit features state-of-the-art identity and credit monitoring, checking account reporting, and full-service identity restoration that includes insurance and lost wallet assistance in canceling and replacing credit cards. If you become a victim of identity theft, IDIQ’s trained experts will help you restore your identity as close as possible to the level it was before the incident. This can save you hundreds of hours of your own time and productivity. It can also save you money.

With the COVID-19 crisis, the country has seen an increase in identity theft. OPEIU has upgraded the already robust program to help members and their families stay safe during the pandemic and beyond. Additional features of this benefit include internet surveillance including the Dark Web, up to $1 million in insurance if you are a victim of identity theft, solicitation reduction to help eliminate those annoying spam calls, and fully U.S.-based customer service. You’ll also get a monthly email update to give you added peace of mind.

MetLife Retiree Dental Plan Discount
November 25, 2020

For the 2021 policy year, MetLife is reducing its Dental Plan rates by 4.1%.  This rate reduction reflects the reduced usage of the Dental Plan during the COVID-19 pandemic.  The reduced rate is guaranteed for a period of 1 year.  Retiree members who are enrolled in this benefit will see the reduced rates reflected in their premium bills for 2021, or in their bank account deductions for the 2021 policy year.

Retiree members who have not yet taken advantage of this comprehensive dental coverage program are encouraged to consider enrolling in this benefit. Please reach out to us at 1-800-828-OMCE for additional information.

NYS Department of Civil Service Survey
November 9, 2020

The NYS Department of Civil Service (DCS) is conducting a pay equity study of State and municipal employees in the classified service. A large-scale study of this kind has not been conducted since the 1980s. The study, which is required by law, will help determine, among other things, if the salary grade (NOT salary) of your title is accurate based upon duties, responsibilities, and minimum qualifications.

A pilot study earlier this year involved 2,000 employees. In this study, approximately 20,000 State employees have been randomly selected to participate, including many M/Cs. Participation has been described as a mandatory work assignment. Accordingly, there will be follow up from either your Human Resources office or DCS (or both). OMCE encourages your participation as it is critical to the success of the study. Your individual response will NOT be shared with your agency to ensure a degree of confidentiality.

A frequently asked questions (FAQ) document is available for your review in the following link: https://www.cs.ny.gov/businesssuite/docs/memos/Pay%20Equity%20Final%20Phase%20FAQs.pdf

Productivity Enhancement Program: health insurance premium cost savings!
November 2, 2020

Program

M/C employees up to Grade 23 are eligible to participate in the Productivity Enhancement Program (PEP) for 2021. This is a negotiated benefit which is extended to M/C employees. It allows eligible CSEA-represented, DC- 37-represented, and Management/Confidential (M/C) employees in the Executive branch to exchange previously accrued annual leave (vacation) and/or personal leave in return for a credit to be applied toward their employee share of NYSHIP premiums on a biweekly basis.

Eligibility

•  M/C employees must be a classified or unclassified service employee in the Executive branch in a title at Salary Grade 23 or below or equated to a position at or below Salary Grade 23 (SUNY M/C employees–NU 13 should refer to SUNY Administration for eligibility);

• Have a minimum combined balance of annual and personal leave of at least 8 days after making the forfeiture; and

• Be a NYSHIP enrollee (contract holder) in either the Empire Plan or an HMO at the time of enrollment.

Full-time M/C employees in Salary Grades (SG) 1–17 (or non-statutory employees equated to SG 1–17, or employees with an annual salary rate no greater than job rate of SG 17) who enroll in the program may elect to forfeit a total of either 3 days (22.5 or 24 hours for 37.5- and 40- hour workweeks, respectively) or 6 days (45 or 48 hours for 37.5- and 40-hour workweeks, respectively) of earned annual and/or personal leave at the time of enrollment in return for a credit of up to either $600 or $1200, respectively, for the 2021 program year to be applied toward the employee share of NYSHIP premiums deducted from biweekly paychecks during the program year of January 1 through December 31, 2021.

Full-time M/C employees in SG 18–23 (or non-statutory employees equated to SG 18–23, or employees with an annual salary exceeding the job rate of SG 17 but with an annual salary no greater than the job rate of SG 23), who enroll in the program will be eligible to forfeit a total of either 2 days (15 or 16 hours for 37.5- and 40-hour workweeks, respectively) or 4 days (30 or 32 hours for 37.5- and 40-hour workweeks, respectively) of previously accrued annual and/or personal leave at the time of enrollment in return for a credit of up to either $600 or $1200, respectively, for the 2021 program year to be applied toward the employee share of NYSHIP premiums deducted from biweekly paychecks during the program year of January 1 through December 31, 2021.

Part-time employees who meet the eligibility requirements may participate on pro-rated basis.

Please note: If you enrolled in PEP for 2020, you MUST do so again for 2021 if you wish to continue this benefit.

Please see the following links for the Department of Civil Service memorandum on the program and the related enrollment form below.

https://www.cs.ny.gov/attendance_leave/PEP%202021%20Program%20Description.pdf

https://www.cs.ny.gov/attendance_leave/PEP%202021%20Combined%20Enrollment%20Form%20Fillable.pdf

Invitation: OMCE Teleconference for M/C Employees

In these times, the pace, number, and variety of developments in federal and State government require that you stay informed and involved. To that end, we encourage both members and non-members to join us for an OMCE informational teleconference. In keeping with efforts to maintain social distancing standards during the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be offering two teleconferences for M/C employees in order to provide you with the latest up-to-date news and for you to share your concerns with our staff.

Please join us at one of the two following teleconference sessions:

Thursday, November 5, 2020, 12 noon to 12:30 p.m.

OR

Thursday, November 5, 2020, 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Please select the time that is best suited to your schedule. For our teleconferences there is a maximum number of participants that can be accommodated on each call. So please call to confirm your participation early so as not to be shut out of your desired time slot. Call OMCE to reserve at 800-828-OMCE or 518-456-5241. Without a reservation you will not be provided with a call-in number and participant code for teleconference access. If we are over-subscribed, we will promptly schedule another call-in.

Learn why your membership in OMCE is so vitally important. We look forward to talking with you soon!

Training Opportunities
October 20, 2020

OMCE continues to lobby the State to restart the M/C employee tuition reimbursement program which was suspended due to fiscal considerations. The tuition reimbursement program is an investment, not an expense; a better educated workforce benefits the employee, the State, and its citizens. Pending reinstatement of the M/C employee tuition reimbursement program, we note that the Public Service Workshop Program (PSWP) continues virtually. We would encourage interested M/C employees to take advantage of work-related offerings with the permission of their supervisors. View link here: https://www.pswp.info/workshops.cfm

Medicare and NYSHIP
October 20, 2020

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, and for those under 65 who have disabilities. It is administered by the Social Security Administration and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). When you become eligible for primary Medicare coverage (“primary” means Medicare pays health insurance claims first, before NYSHIP), you must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. NYSHIP also requires your enrolled dependents to be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B when they are first eligible for primary Medicare coverage.

If you are a State retiree and approaching age 65, please make certain that you enroll in Medicare Parts A and B (referred to as original Medicare) in a timely manner so as to maximize your insurance coverage and reduce your costs. Also, Medicare allows enrollment in only one Medicare product at a time. Therefore, enrolling in a Medicare Part D plan, a Medicare Advantage plan, or other Medicare product in addition to your NYSHIP coverage may result in the cancellation of your NYSHIP coverage. This includes Medicare products that you or your covered dependents may be enrolled in through another employer (yours or your spouse’s). For this reason, please review the following links for important information relating to Medicare and its relationship with your retiree insurance through NYSHIP. You may also reach NYSHIP toll free at 1-877-7-NYSHIP (1-877-769-7447).

https://www.cs.ny.gov/employee-benefits/nyship/group/5/17/1/medicare.cfm

https://www.cs.ny.gov/employee-benefits/nyship/shared/publications/medicare/2019/ny-pe-medicare-nyship-2019.pdf

In Remembrance
October 13, 2020

Over the years, many OMCE members have benefited from the assistance of Patty Johnston. Before joining the OMCE team, Patty worked for 36 years at a variety of State agencies. As such, she brought innumerable talents to OMCE. We are sad to say that we have lost Patty after a long and difficult illness. Patty was a remarkable coworker and friend, mother, grandmother, and wife. Patty had a unique way about her that you do not find every day; talking with her made you feel special and it restored your faith in life and the people around you. Simply put, Patty cared, and it showed; and that made all the difference. If you wish, a memorial donation may be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.

NYSHIP Option Transfer Period
October 13, 2020

Please note that the option transfer period has been announced for active employees of New York State. The NYS Department of Civil Service has issued a new publication describing the option transfer period as well as the Opt-out, the Pre-Tax Contribution, and the Productivity Enhancement programs for 2021. You may access this publication with the following link: https://www.cs.ny.gov/employee-benefits/hba/shared/publications/option-transfer/2021/planning-for-option-transfer-2021.pdf

We remind our retiree members that they may change their NYSHIP health insurance plan (option) once during a 12-month period for any reason.

Telecommuting and VRWS Updates
October 5, 2020

The Statewide Telecommuting Pilot Project has been extended until January 1, 2021. Details of the project are included in the following link: http://www.nysomce.org/pdf/202003_Pilot_Telecommuting_Bulletin_GOER.pdf

Additionally, the expiration date of Voluntary Reduction in Work Schedule (VRWS) credits earned during fiscal year 2019-2020 has been extended from September 30, 2020 to March 31, 2021. The Business Services Center (BSC) will process the extension of VRWS accruals when the timesheet that includes September 30, 2020 is submitted, approved, and processed. The BSC will notify employees by email when the extension of VRWS accruals have processed. A link to the VRWS program follows: https://goer.ny.gov/voluntary-reduction-work-schedule-vrws

Salary Deferral Continues
September 28, 2020

The Administration has, yet again, deferred the April 1, 2020, salary increases for union and non-union employees of the State of New York. This has an even greater impact on Management/Confidential employees as our performance advances (“step increases”) and longevity payments (for employees through Grade 17) have been withheld this fiscal year. We continue to advocate for equal treatment of M/C employees in matters of salary and benefits, but we need your help today. If you have not already done so, please take a moment to contact your NYS legislator through the Action Line letter found on our website’s navigation bar. It takes just minutes and lets YOUR State Senator and Assembly Member know, BEFORE ELECTION DAY, which issues are important to you! Not yet an OMCE member? We need your membership! There is strength in numbers and joining OMCE gives you a voice through our ongoing advocacy and lobbying. Please visit our enrollment page today and consider joining via automatic payroll deduction or Paypal for effortless convenience.

OMCE Annual Meeting
September 21, 2020

Discussion at the Annual Meeting centered around issues of interest and concern to our members and other MC employees and on which we have been engaged with GOER and the state administration including the following:

Telecommuting; The current pilot project expires on October 2, 2020. Our discussions with GOER revealed that many agencies want to continue to use this program and may do so even if it is not officially extended by the Administration. It is viewed as successful for MCs. GOER will notify OMCE re: extension.

Extension of Annual Leave Expiration Date; Many inquiries have been received by OMCE about the possibility of an extension for the use of Annual Leave accruals beyond December 31, 2020. Despite our continuing advocacy, and requests from certain state agencies to extend the deadline past December 31, 2020 so far the Administration has not indicated any interest in approving an extension. While we continue to press for an extension there is no assurance one will be granted so we are advising MCs to request approval to use their excess annual leave accruals prior to December 31 and if denied to advise OMCE if they wish us to include them in our advocacy efforts. GOER will notify OMCE if extension is approved.

Required Overtime and Overtime Pay Calculations;  Here too OMCE has received many inquiries about the rules for paying overtime and the calculation of such payments for MC employees, especially those who are ordinarily overtime ineligible. Budget Bulletin H-0501 (Revised) April 17, 2020 is the controlling document and describes how overtime pay should be calculated. There are many concerns expressed about employees being paid at blended rate rather than time and one-half at regular title rate (only paid at this rate if doing regular title work or work specifically related to COVID 19 relief and recovery  during overtime) and late payment, which should no longer be an issue. We ask that MCs who are still experiencing issues should, if they wish OMCE to include them in our advocacy efforts or to forward their specific issue to GOER provide us with a detailed description. GOER will provide OMCE with a copy of their memo to agencies on the proper computation of overtime.

Deferred Performance Advances and Longevity Payments; Inquiries about payment of these "deferred" payments continue to come to OMCE and have been discussed with GOER which has not provided a specific response. OMCE requested the amount of savings these withholdings are projected to produce, GOER said they would try to obtain this data. OMCE submitted a FOIL request to the Division of the Budget requesting this information. Note: A letter to send to legislators on this issue is available on the OMCE website Action Line.

Retirement Incentive; There has been much interest in the possibility of a retirement incentive. There are a number of retirement incentive bills but so far there has been no action taken on them. The Governor has been focused on obtaining federal assistance to plug the budget gap and has to date not offered a retirement incentive separately or as part of a potential "savings plan." At this time there is no specific information available about the potential for a retirement incentive, furloughs, layoffs or other workforce actions.

MC Tuition Reimbursement; Question raised about status of MC Tuition Reimbursement. GOER is not accepting applications for courses beginning after April 1, 2020.

Pension Contribution Rates Increased; Several members pointed out that the Comptroller had raised the employer contribution rates for the state pension system, but had also given assurances that the pension system remains strong and state retiree pensions are secure. The Fund was valued at $194.3 billion at the end of the fiscal year March 31, 2020 and had increased in value to $216.3 billion as of June 30, 2020.  

Annual Leave Accrual and Expiration Deadline Extension
September 18, 2020

As you may know, the rules for Annual Leave accrual and expiration for M/C employees are unique. The Governor’s Office of Employee Relations (GOER) Handbook reads, in part:

“On January 1st of each calendar year, an employee's accrued vacation may not exceed 40 days, although total vacation accruals may exceed this limit at other times during the year. An employee who accumulates more than 40 days of vacation credits in a calendar year must use the amount over 40 days or lose it on the last day of the calendar year.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, State employees have accrued considerable amounts of Annual Leave due to reasons such as mandatory and voluntary overtime or reduced opportunities for time off. The April 1, 2020, accrual expiration date for union-represented employees was extended to January 1, 2021. OMCE, in the meantime, has repeatedly requested that the Administration extend the deadline for accrual expiration (meaning accruals over 40 days) through April 1, 2021. Certain State agencies have also requested such an extension. To date, the Administration has refused the request. Despite that, we continue to advocate for this extension; it has no monetary impact on the State and is a reasonable and necessary accommodation in light of the demands made upon M/C employees.

While OMCE continues to press for an extension of the Annual Leave expiration deadline, there is NO guarantee that it will be granted. Accordingly, we advise you to consider requesting to use your excess Annual Leave accruals prior to December 31, 2020, rather than risk seeing those accruals evaporate! We also advise you to make any such request for annual leave accrual use in writing and that you maintain a copy of your request and management’s response in the event that your request is denied. If you wish for us to include your experience in advocacy efforts please forward the denied request documentation to OMCE via email (nysomce@gmail.com). That way our fight for you and for the extension of the expiration deadline can be illustrated by real-life situations.

Retirement Incentive Speculation, Part 5
September 17, 2020

The following link leads to an informative, concise article on the possibility of a retirement incentive. We encourage members interested in this topic to read the article.

https://nystateofpolitics.com/state-of-politics/new-york/ny-state-of- politics/2020/09/16/should-early-retirement-incentives-be-on-the-table-now-

OMCE Board of Directors Election Results

Thank you to our members who participated in our recent election of Board Members. Three Board Members were re-elected for three year terms, they are Robert Hollander, Maura  McCann and Donald Sweezy. Newly elected Board Members, also for three year terms are Melissa Johnston and Anthony Robles. We congratulate them and look forward to their active engagement in moving OMCE forward.

OMCE Officers elected

Pursuant to OMCE ByLaws the Board of Directors at its September 11, 2020 meeting elected officers for the coming one year. The officers are:

Congratulations and best wishes for a successful and productive year.

OMCE Annual Meeting Notice
September 4, 2020

Please join us for our Annual Meeting via videoconference on September 11, 2020, at 5 p.m. We will discuss recent developments in State government as they apply to OMCE members. The quarterly Board of Directors meeting will follow. Interested members may request the call- in number and code by contacting our toll-free number at 1-800-828-OMCE, or by dialing 518- 456-5241. See you then!

Overtime Issues
September 1, 2020

M/C employees, like their union-represented co-workers, have worked (and continue to work) voluntary and mandatory overtime during the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether at the Department of Labor, the Department of Health, or any number of other critical agencies, M/C employees are providing the services necessary to not only keep New York running, but to help so many thousands of others who were negatively impacted by the pandemic. This sacrifice on your part at this very difficult time is appreciated!

OMCE has repeatedly expressed its concerns to GOER about the State’s failure to pay M/C employees overtime promptly and at the appropriate rate of pay. As we weigh our various options, both legal and otherwise, OMCE needs to hear from you about your personal experience with overtime. If you are in a title allocated to M-2 or below and have not been paid for overtime, OR if you are not being paid at your proper overtime rate of pay for COVID- related overtime work, we need to hear from you directly! Please email us at nysomce@gmail.com to let us know of your situation. An OMCE employee will contact you in return. Thank you for helping us help you!

Write your State Senator and Assembly Member!
August 24, 2020

As you know, the Governor has withheld raises for ALL State employees regardless of bargaining unit due to the fiscal condition of the State. M/C employees, however, have been treated disparately yet again; M/C performance advances (“steps”) and longevity payments have also been withheld. While we understand the current fiscal pressures on the State’s budget, we can find no justification for this unequal treatment. M/C employees work shoulder to shoulder with their union-represented co-workers in delivering needed services to 19 million New Yorkers. We deserve the same treatment, and the same respect, as our co-workers. While we continue to communicate this demand to the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations, your voices are also needed in communicating with your elected representatives in Albany. Please visit the Action Line function on this website to send your letter electronically to your Senator and Assembly Member today! Thank you!

Retirement Incentive Speculation, Part 4
August 18, 2020

Yet another legislator has proposed a retirement incentive bill. Assembly member Buttenschon has introduced A.10897. It is the counterpart to Senator Griffo’s bill S.8801. Both bills replicate earlier retirement incentive bill language from 2010. A.10897 has been referred to the Committee on Government Employees. As we have previously stated, there has been no endorsement of these bills from legislative leaders nor the Governor. Accordingly, we encourage our members to remain patient and keep checking back for any developments.

Virtual Lunch and Learn (and Virtual Dinner, too)
August 7, 2020

In keeping with efforts to maintain social distancing standards during the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be offering two teleconferences for M/C employees in order to provide you with the latest up-to-date news and for you to share your concerns with our staff.

Please join us at one of the two following teleconference sessions:

Wednesday, August 19, 2020, 12 noon to 12:30 p.m.

OR

Wednesday, August 19, 2020, 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Please select the time that is best suited to your schedule and work location. For our teleconferences there is a maximum number of participants that can be accommodated on each call. So please call to confirm your participation early so as not to be shut out of your desired time slot. Call OMCE to reserve at 800-828-OMCE or 518-456-5241. Without a reservation you will not be provided with a call-in number and participant code for teleconference access. If we are over-subscribed, we will promptly schedule another call-in.

Learn why your membership in OMCE is so vitally important at this time. We look forward to talking with you soon!

Reminder: Membership Information Update
August 7, 2020

We are continuing to update our membership information database. Your assistance is needed to ensure that the database is accurate.

If you have not already done so, please take a moment to complete the following FORM and return it by email to nysomce@gmail.com OR print and mail to NYS OMCE, 5 Pine West Plaza, Suite 513, Albany, New York 12205-5587. While you are welcome to provide work contact information, it is best to communicate with you through your non-work contacts. Thank you!

Retiring? Thinking about retiring? Planning is key!
August 6, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused State employees to rethink how they prepare for retirement. Pre-retirement seminars have been postponed and the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) has suspended many live consultations. OSC notes on its Employees Retirement System web page that “To protect the health of our members and employees, Retirement System consultation offices are closed until further notice. To schedule a phone consultation, and for all other inquiries, contact us at 1-866-805-0990; 518-474-7736 in the Albany, NY area.” OSC also strongly encourages retirement system members to use Retirement Online to do business with NYSLRS at this time. You may register for an online account with the Employees Retirement System if you have not already done so.

In the meantime, please visit these helpful sites as you plan for retirement:

 https://www.osc.state.ny.us/retirement/members/retirement-planning.

https://goer.ny.gov/pre-retirement-planning-information

https://www.cs.ny.gov/retirees/

https://bsc.ogs.ny.gov/retirement

Include OMCE in your retirement planning!

If you are at or near retirement, you will be happy to know that you can continue (or even begin) your OMCE membership at the retiree rate of $45 annually. This fee allows you to obtain our continued advocacy, benefits, and services without interruption. Our benefits specifically for retirees include competitively priced eyewear, dental, and hearing care programs. Payment may be made by PayPal, credit card, or check. Please contact us at 518- 456-5241 with questions.

Benefits Preview
July 30, 2020

While we advocate for members, lobby in their interests, defend them in grievance and disciplinary matters, and provide critical guidance and advice, we also offer our members voluntary benefit programs that enrich both their financial well-being and their leisure.

OMCE offers our members a broad variety of relevant and helpful voluntary benefits at discounted group prices. These benefits run the gamut; from financial and insurance services to entertainment and product discounts to legal services, mortgage programs, and much more. Through our affiliation with OPEIU, Local 153, of the AFL-CIO, our voluntary benefit program offers an array of discounted products and services that equals or exceeds those of CSEA and PEF. When coupled with our OMCE-specific benefits and discounts, our offerings are simply unbeatable.

We just added a Benefits Preview link on our navigation bar that highlights our offerings through our affiliation with OPEIU and the AFL-CIO. While you must be a dues paying member to enroll in these programs, please take a moment to see what benefits and discounts could be available to you. Additionally, we offer the following exclusive OMCE benefits for members:

• Heating fuel at reduced co-op prices (membership fee waived for OMCE members)

• Mortgage programs with NO application, lender, underwriting or processing fees

• Discounted Liberty Mutual Insurance for auto and home

• Guaranteed Acceptance life insurance and disability insurance programs

 Anything free? Yes, with your paid membership in OMCE, you can enroll AT NO ADDITIONAL COST into a roadside assistance program, a nationally recognized identity theft program and, for working members, a free death benefit, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, and a disability program.

FREE COLLEGE?? Yes! Through our affiliation with OPEIU, you or your spouse, children, grandchildren or dependents may earn tuition-free an Associate Degree online through Eastern Gateway Community College, a State of Ohio public college. The free college benefit provides degrees in Associate of Arts, Associate of Criminal Justice, Associate of Business Management and Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education, with more free online degree programs to come. With many colleges reverting to on-line education during the pandemic, why not consider this FREE alternative? Fall classes start soon!

Retiring? We have vision care and hearing aid programs and an unrivaled dental insurance plan with generous coverage.

As always, we appreciate hearing from our members (and potential members). Please let us know what other benefit programs would be of interest to you. Thank you for visiting today.

2020 Census
July 30, 2020

The decennial census is the nation’s once-per-decade, constitutionally-mandated count of every American, regardless of their citizenship status. The importance of the decennial census cannot be underestimated.  

We at OMCE strongly encourage you to participate in the 2020 Census! Results of the census will determine New Yorkers’ fair share of federal funds for programs essential to health care, education, housing, economic development and transportation, as well as, our congressional representation in Washington. Without a fair share of federal dollars, New York State cannot properly balance its budget and pay its obligations. This, in turn, has a direct impact on the State’s ability to fund the very salaries and benefits of our members and retirees.

The New York response rate to the Census is 58%, compared to the national average of 63%. Couple that with State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s finding that we get 90 cents back on every $1.00 we send to the federal government in tax receipts and we have a recipe for fiscal disaster.  

In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the U.S. Census Bureau is continually adjusting 2020 Census operations. Since the suspension of field operations in mid-March, Census Bureau leadership has continually assessed operational plans, Federal, state and local guidance, and the status of COVID-19 cases to ensure that the 2020 Census can fulfill its mission. Starting July 16, census takers began interviewing households that have yet to respond to the 2020 Census. The Census Bureau is working toward the plan to complete field data collection by October 31, 2020.  

If you have yet to respond, simply go to www.2020census.gov. It only takes about 10 minutes to complete the survey.  

We need to be counted to get the legislative representation that we need and deserve. We need to be counted to ensure our communities are not shortchanged. Let’s get counted! Thank you for your part in making a difference!

2020 Legislative Session
July 29, 2020

The NYS Legislature reconvened during the week of July 20 to address a long list of outstanding items. This was the third time since March that the Legislature met since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and may mark the end of the session.

The Legislature passed a wide range of bills including automatic voter registration, redistricting process amendments, voting by absentee ballots, made Juneteenth a public holiday, requiring public employers to adopt a plan for operations in the event of a declared public health emerging involving communicable disease, and many others.

Last week’s activity did not include any actions to address a projected $13 billion budget deficit that is anticipated to balloon to $60 billion over four years. Governor Cuomo continues to press the President and Congress to provide federal aid to state and local governments. Without financial assistance, Governor Cuomo’s financial plan includes $8.2 billion in recurring reductions in aid to localities and a 10% reduction in executive agency budgets.

Also not acted upon last week were proposed retirement incentive bills. Despite a great deal of interest by state and local employees which is being communicated to legislators, the legislature has not acted on the bills and may be waiting for a clear signal from the Governor that he supports a retirement incentive as part of his financial savings plan. So far that has not occurred.

Please check our website regularly for any updates.

OMCE:  WORKING FOR YOU!
July 24, 2020  

The COVID-19 pandemic has been especially difficult for working people.  Many of our members are designated as essential employees in institutional hospitals and health care settings, correctional facilities, parole offices and other front-line environments.  They  often work at great risk to their health and potentially to that of their families.  They also lead efforts to provide unemployment insurance benefits, administer Department of Health programs and laboratories to combat the pandemic, and deliver other vital services and benefits.  All told, our members are giving their all and working untold hours of overtime to turn the tide against this pandemic.  We are proud of all that you do and sincerely proud to represent you!  

Unfortunately, despite the Administration’s talk of family and compassion, many M/Cs believe that there is a demonstrated lack of respect and fairness being shown to them even in light of their hard work and sacrifice.  OMCE is here to address those shortcomings, to represent members in their grievances and workplace difficulties, and to push for legislation that makes a difference in our members’ working lives.  

As the only recognized representative for M/C employees, we continue to advocate for the fair and equitable treatment of ALL employees of the State of New York.  At this time, we are focusing on the following issues with respect to M/C employees:  

• Cost saving alternatives for the State that include retirement incentives and reduced work schedules.

• Full restoration of M/C performance advances and longevity payments.  

• Enforcement of guaranteed paid sick leave coverage for mandatory and precautionary quarantine consistent with communicated policy and statutes.

• Implementation of clear, understandable overtime pay policies that recognize the actual work performed by M/C employees during overtime assignments.

• Timely payment of earned overtime.

• Cooperative planning of workplace and operations redesign to maximize the safety of employees, patients, visitors and customers, including increased telecommuting options and alternative work schedules.  

 If you have not joined OMCE yet, please consider doing so now.  Our voice is stronger and louder when we speak for a larger membership.  Joining has never been easier.  Payroll deduction is available through your employer.  For confidentiality, our link to PayPal offers a seamless, secure, and convenient method to regularly pay your dues on your schedule.  What could be easier?  

As always, please feel free to reach out to us with your concerns and questions either by telephone or email whether you are a member or considering membership.

OMCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION BALLOTS IN THE MAIL
July 23, 2020

Be on the lookout for our mailing to all OMCE members of election ballots for board of director positions!

Please keep the following in mind as you prepare your ballot:

• Vote for up to five candidates ONLY

• Use only the provided return envelope

• Do NOT sign the ballot to preserve confidentiality, and

• Include your name and address on the return envelope

Ballots will not be counted if the return envelope does not include your name and address OR if the return envelope is received at OMCE offices after August 28, 2020.

If you have moved and not updated your address of record, please contact us at your soonest convenience. If you are a member and do not receive your ballot by August 11, 2020, please call us at 518-456-5241.

M/C Life Insurance Deduction Error Reported
July 6, 2020

The New York State Department of Civil Service has informed OMCE that there has been a processing error regarding payroll deductions for M/C employees enrolled in the M/C Life Insurance program administered by the State. As a result, enrolled employees will see twice the usual premium amount deducted from their paychecks for the July 8, 2020, Administration payroll.

The explanation issued by the Department of Civil Service follows:

“As a result of a system error, you will have an extra Life Insurance deduction in your paycheck dated July 8, 2020. This will occur for all M/C Life Insurance enrollees on the Administration Payroll.  

On your paycheck dated July 8, 2020, you will have your typical M/C Life Insurance deduction marked as “NYS Group Insurance.” You will also have an additional deduction in the same amount marked as “Special After Tax Health Adj”.  

To account for this error, you will not have a Life Insurance deduction taken from your paycheck dated July 22, 2020.  Normal life insurance deductions will resume on your paycheck dated August 5, 2020.  

Questions concerning this information should be directed to your Health Benefits Administrator (HBA) in your agency’s Office of Human Resources.”

Salary Increase Deferral Extended by Governor
June 30, 2020

The Governor has extended the deferral of salary increases for both union- represented and management/confidential employees. These increases were to be effective April 1, 2020, but were deferred due to the budgetary impact of the COVID- 19 global pandemic. Performance advance (steps) and longevity payments due M/C employees will also be withheld. The Division of the Budget will reassess the State’s fiscal condition in 90 days and issue further recommendations by October 1, 2020. In the meantime, we continue to push the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations to restore performance advance and longevity payments immediately.

New Scholarship Opportunity
June 24, 2020

We are pleased to inform our members that a new scholarship opportunity for their children and grandchildren has just become available! This scholarship is open only to OMCE members. Up to five college-enrolled students will win a $1,000 scholarship for one year.

This scholarship has been made available through the generosity of one of our voluntary benefit providers: M3 Technology. M3 Technology provides Guaranteed Acceptance voluntary benefits for Life, Long Term Care, Disability, Accident, Critical Illness, and Retiree Dental plans. We are proud of our association with M3 Technology and delighted that they have taken the initiative to offer a new scholarship at this difficult financial time for our members and our communities. Please note: there is NO requirement that you or any family member enroll in any benefit program offered by M3 Technology!

Please Click Here to view and print out the simple college scholarship application. Deadline for the receipt of applications is November 30, 2020.

Retirement Incentive Speculation, Part 3
June 24, 2020

As of this writing, there is no confirmation that any retirement incentive program bill would be passed by the Legislature. To date, no legislative majority leader has announced their unqualified support for any such bill. Further, there has been no word from the Governor that he would sign any such legislation. According to a Division of the Budget spokesperson quoted in the Times Union, retirement incentive programs are “not being considered at this time.” Please refer to the Times Union article of June 23, 2020, entitled, “Talk of buyouts generates buzz.”

We will continue to update our members to related developments on our website as necessary. Attached is a synopsis of current legislative proposals for a retirement incentive program. Click here.

Membership Information Update

As we modernize our digital presence and expand regular communications with our members, it is vital that we have your most recent home address, email, and telephone numbers. In these uncertain and changing times, communication is key. Our ability to effectively and timely share news, information, and benefit program availability is fundamental to our future success.

Please take a moment to complete the following FORM and return it by email to nysomce@gmail.com OR print and mail to NYS OMCE, 5 Pine West Plaza, Suite 513, Albany, New York 12205-5587. While you are welcome to provide work contact information, it is best to communicate with you through your non-work contacts.

Retirement Incentive Speculation, Part 2
June 19, 2020

Senator Martinez has introduced a retirement incentive bill (S.8599) with Senator Harckham as the prime co-sponsor. The bill has been referred to the Senate Rules Committee. There is a “same as” or corresponding bill in the Assembly introduced by Assembly Member Abinanti (A.10595). Assembly Member Abinanti’s bill is in the Governmental Employees Committee of the State Assembly.

We are reaching out to the bill sponsors and will keep you apprised of any additional developments on this website.

Juneteenth Holiday

On June 17, 2020, Governor Cuomo declared by Executive Order that all State offices will be closed on Friday, June 19, 2020 in celebration of Juneteenth. A directive from the Director of State Operations and Infrastructure, Kelly Cummings, was issued yesterday communicating this new paid holiday to all State agencies. A copy of that directive, which includes details, can be viewed HERE. “Non-essential” employees regularly scheduled to work Friday will receive that day off with pay. If you are deemed “essential” for State operations and must work June 19, 2020, you will be credited with one day of compensatory time off that must be used no later than June 18, 2021. If you have any question that you are “essential” and must be at work as scheduled on June 19, 2020, in order to provide needed coverage or services, please contact your supervisor to confirm if, in fact, you are required to report to work. If you were pre-scheduled to be off Friday June 19, 2020, you will not be required to charge accruals.

Pilot Statewide Telecommuting Program Extended
June 18, 2020    

The previously agreed to telecommuting pilot program implemented on March 16, 2020, will be extended through close of business October 2, 2020.  Please scroll below to the original memorandum and bulletin to view program parameters.

Retirement Incentive Speculation
June 16, 2020

There has been recent speculation regarding a retirement incentive program for employees since the introduction of Assembly Bill A. 10595. As of this writing, there is no specific information available that indicates if or when action may be taken on this bill. The bill is in the Assembly Government Employees Committee and has not been acted on by that committee; further there is no scheduled committee meeting. Additionally, at this time there is no Senate companion "same as" bill.

The legislature’s recent focus has been on COVID-19 and criminal justice/police reform issues; it is not clear when they will act on other matters. The Governor continues to push the federal government for financial assistance to address the current budgetary shortfall. As a result, the Division of the Budget’s (DOB) tentative savings plan has not been revealed; any final plan will ultimately depend on the extent of federal financial assistance. The second budget review period outlined in the budget ends June 30; it is anticipated that the Governor will release DOB’s savings plan after that date. The legislature has 10 days to react to the savings plan and make potential changes. These are some of the factors impacting the advancement of any retirement incentive program and part of the reason there is no definitive answer at this time.

Please know that we are monitoring the situation and realize that the status of this legislation may change from day to day. Once we have reliable information regarding this or other developments of interest to our members, we will post it on our website as soon as possible.

Salary Increase Deferral
June 3, 2020  

Due to member inquiries, we must clarify the ongoing issue of recent salary increase deferrals that have negatively and disproportionately impacted M/C employees.   The Governor suggested that State employees have “voluntarily” deferred their raises due to the fiscal difficulties resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.  OMCE did not agree to any deferral; we were only informed that the deferral would take place.  Similarly, the leaders of CSEA and of NYSCOPBA also indicated that their unions did not agree to any salary increase deferral.  Very simply, the “pay bills” or authorizing legislation for all union employees and non-represented (M/C) employees uniformly contain a clause that allows the State to withhold or delay payments in matters of fiscal distress.  The State exercised its option to implement that clause and claimed it would reassess its budgetary situation in three months.  It would be a mischaracterization, therefore, to suggest that this was a voluntary deferral.  

In the case of M/C employees, the State has added insult to injury; not only were our raises deferred, like those of our union counterparts, but M/C longevities and step increases (performance advances) have likewise been withheld.  Our position is and remains that employees of the State of New York must be treated consistently and equitably across the board; M/C employees can no longer be expected to bear a disproportionate burden of the financial pain YET AGAIN!  While the savings gained from these actions is cumulatively marginal in light of the projected budget shortfall, the consequences of these deferral actions inflict substantial financial pain on M/C employees and their families.  We remain in communication with the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations in these matters; we ask that you, in turn, communicate your concerns to your State Senators and Assembly Members.  Together, we can make a difference.

Second Call--Nominations for OMCE Board of Directors
Nominations due June 12, 2020

The process of identifying nominees for the 2020 OMCE Board of Directors election is underway. Several current Board Members are interested in running for a new term. We are seeking additional nominees so are asking OMCE members to consider nominating themselves or another member to run for a seat on the Board. There are five sets to be filled this year.

The OMCE Board of Directors is charged with providing guidance and direction and setting policy for the organization. Board Members are advocates of many and diverse interests and come with different  experiences. As our governing board, they address issues of concern to Management/Confidential (M/C) employees, reach agreement through consensus and commission the OMCE staff, law firm and consultants to take necessary and appropriate action.

The Nominations Committee is seeking applications from OMCE members who are active state M/C employees who are willing to commit their time, energy and talent to address issues of concern to the approximately 10,000 M/C employees in the Executive Branch who are OMCE members or eligible for OMCE membership as well as M/C employees in other branches of government. If you are ready, willing and able to invest in OMCE by helping us address issues such as M/C compensation and benefits, protection of pension and health insurance benefits, conditions of employment, workforce and succession management, retiree benefits, employee representation, and many others that we re faced with, contact us now.

Five seats are available each for a three year term in this year's election. Send your resume along with a statement suitable for use on the ballot describing your background, priority issues and interests, and your interest in serving on the Board by June 12, 2020 close of business to OMCE at nysomce@gmail.com or by mail to OMCE, 5 Pine West Plaza, Suite 513, Albany New York 12205.

Agencies Prepare Plans for Return of Non-Essential Employees

 In a memorandum dated May 14, 2020, Director of State Operations Kelly Cummings outlined broad steps for agencies to take in planning the return of non- essential employees previously directed to work from home. The work from home order has been extended through May 31, 2020. Director Cummings indicates that employees in certain designated regions could be expected to return to work as early as June 1, 2020. Any return to work is dependent upon regions meeting the established criteria for safely re-opening the State in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Additional information will be shared upon availability.

Pilot Statewide Telecommuting Program Extended
May 18, 2020    

The previously agreed to telecommuting pilot program implemented on March 16, 2020, will be extended through July 17, 2020.  Please scroll below to the original memorandum and bulletin to view program parameters.

Policy Bulletin on Absences due to COVID-19 Testing and Quarantine
May 11, 2020

The Department of Civil Service issued a Policy Bulletin (2020-01) for Attendance and Leave Manual users concerning absences of employees impacted by COVID-19. This is separate and distinct from guidance for employees working from home. The bulletin contains a comprehensive discussion of guidance from the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations (GOER), emergency expansion of the federal Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and new legislation, the Federal Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act (FEPSLA). A link is found here: https://www.cs.ny.gov/attendance_leave/PolBull20-01.cfm

FAQs on Salary Issues
May 11, 2020

When will I receive my general salary increase for 2020?

When the Governor exercised his authority to withhold contractual salary increases for union-represented employees he also did so for management and confidential employees. This, unfortunately, is the prerogative of the Governor as specifically contained in the approved legislation, or "pay bills," that govern State employee salaries. We have previously litigated such actions and the courts have firmly found in favor of the State’s position. Accordingly, in the face of established and long- standing court decisions, there is neither a reasonable nor a logical reason to revisit litigation in this matter. In April the Governor indicated that the State’s fiscal situation was precarious: "You could do layoffs or you could buy some time. Let's freeze the raises because that's better than actually losing your job." The Governor indicated that the issue would be revisited in July as additional revenue information becomes available.

When will I receive my step increase? My longevity payment?

When the Governor deferred payment of general salary increases, he also deferred performance advances and longevity payments for M/C employees. OMCE objected to this inequitable treatment of M/C employees and clearly stated that at the very least that the M/C performance advances and longevity payments should be made now as they are being paid to union-represented employees. As mentioned in our Budget Year 2021 testimony, 50 years ago Governor Rockefeller pledged to M/C employees that "You will be treated no less well than other employees." We continue to urge the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations to fulfill that pledge.

Will there be a retirement incentive?

While rumors persist, there was no funding and no supporting legislation for a retirement incentive program in the Fiscal Year 2021 budget which began April 1, 2020. That does not preclude the State from enacting legislation to implement such a program in light of worsening fiscal conditions. OMCE has communicated to the Governor that a retirement incentive is a welcome and constructive alternative to draconian layoffs that would only serve to deepen the State’s recession and then prolong its recovery. The Division of the Budget is well aware that any long-term savings from a retirement incentive program is reduced by an immediate payment to the pension system to fund higher pension checks for retirees; the last retirement incentive program cost the State over $385 million. Despite such costs, we believe that a well-managed retirement incentive program is a humane and balanced approach to reducing spending during the current crisis.

Is my retirement secure?

We agree that the New York State Common Retirement Fund has long been recognized as one of the best managed and best funded public pension plans in the nation. As such, retirees and employees alike should not worry about their retirement benefits. As New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli wrote:

“I want to assure the more than one million men and women who rely on the State pension fund for retirement security that we are well-positioned to weather the ongoing volatility. To our retirees, your pensions are safe and we will continue to pay your benefits as promised.”

OMCE 2020 Board of Directors Nominations Open
April 24, 2020

Each year at this time we begin our search for OMCE members who may be interested in serving on the OMCE Board of Directors. There are five seats to be filled this year, each for a three year term.

The OMCE Board of Directors is charged with providing guidance, direction, and setting policy for the organization. Board members are advocates of many and diverse interests and reflect different experiences. As our governing board, members address issues of importance and concern to M/C employees and retirees, reach agreement through consensus, and direct the OMCE staff, law firm and consultants to take necessary and appropriate action.

The nominations process is easy since a member can self-nominate. Just submit your resume, a letter stating your interest to run for a Board seat and a statement that can be used for the ballot, describing your background and experience, the issues and priorities you would want to focus on as a Board member and why members should choose you. Nominations are reviewed by the Nominations Committee members who will present a slate of nominees to the Board and, if needed, arrange for a mail ballot. Nominations, via e-mail or regular mail, must be received in the OMCE office no later than June 12, 2020. E-mail to nysomce@gmail.com, subject Nominations, or regular mail to OMCE, 5 Pine West Plaza, Suite 513, Albany NY 12205, Attention: Nominations Committee.

Board members are expected to participate in four Board meetings per year (March, June,September, December) in person, phone or video conference and to serve on at least one committee. Board members receive no compensation but travel expenses for OMCE meetings are reimbursed at state rates.

OMCE is an organization of, by and for M/C employees who choose to join as designation as an M/C employee does not mean automatic enrollment as an OMCE member. OMCE officers and committee members are all unpaid volunteers. We need active working state M/C employees who are interested in being leaders in our ongoing efforts to improve the working conditions and compensation of M/C employees and to ensure their and M/C retirees rights and benefits are protected.

For additional information, contact OMCE at nysomce@gmail.com, 518-456-5241 or from outside area code, 1-800-828-6623.

New OMCE Executive Director
April 22, 2020

Join us in welcoming our new OMCE Executive Director George Velesko. George has over 34 years of dedicated public service at both the State and local levels. His experience has focused on Human resources management and employee relations programs in several State agencies. George concluded his career as a manager in the state's central human resources agency, the New York State Department of Civil Service.

As a Management/Confidential employee through all of his career George has a deep and thorough understanding of the issues and concerns facing M/C employees. With just one week on the job and while acclimating to OMCE George has begun thinking about and drafting proposals for membership outreach and services.

Pension Benefits Are Safe
April 22, 2020

In response to inquiries we received about the  health and stability of the pension fund we reached out to the Comptroller's Office to confirm our understanding that pension benefits are not at risk. Here's the information received from the Comptroller's Office:

"Like all investors, the state's pension fund has faced challenges. Financial markets remain in turmoil as we ended our fiscal year on March 31, when we calculate the fund's year end value. Fortunately, our state's retirement system is well-funded and benefits are secure. We want to assure the more than one million men and women, who rely on the state pension fund for retirement security, that we are well-positioned to weather the ongoing volatility. To our retirees, your pensions are safe and we will continue to pay your benefits as promised.

We take a conservative approach to investing, focused on sustained, long-term results. For some time, we've been making adjustments in expectation of a downturn in the economy. We're actively managing through these difficult times and are confident the markets will ultimately recover." 

Comptroller announces: Waiving Waiting Period for Public Workers Retirement Protects Families During Pandemic Crisis
April 22, 2020

"New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today applauded Governor Cuomo's Executive Order waiving the statutory 15-day waiting period before a public employee's service retirement can take effect. DiNapoli requested the Executive Order in order to safeguard benefits for families who may lose a loved one to COVID-19 before their service retirement can be made official. The Executive Order applies to members of the New York State and Local Retirement System."

To read the complete release go to: https://www.osc.state.ny.us/press/releases/apr20/042220a.htm

GOVERNOR DEFERS APRIL 2020 SALARY INCREASES
April 9, 2020

GOER Director Michael Volforte notified  OMCE President Barbara Zaron that the Governor was deferring April 1, 2020 salary increases for union represented and Management Confidential employees and that there would be a review of this decision in July. The hope, but not a promise, is that revenues will increase sufficiently by July to allow the salary increases to be paid. We were subsequently advised that payment of performance advances and longevity payments for M/Cs is also deferred. OMCE objects to this inequitable treatment of M/Cs and clearly stated that at the very least the M/C performance advances and longevity payments should be made now as they are being paid to union-represented employees now.

At today's press conference the Governor said "You could do layoffs or you could buy some time. Let's freeze the raises because that's better than actually losing your job."

Surely there must be a wide range of emotions at this news, you may be angry, disappointed, disgruntled, frustrated,  feel unappreciated and under valued, etc. We recognize your value and worth and commitment to ensuring that state government continues to function. And at this time of extra expectations and pressure you are "going above and beyond".

We will continue to press for equal treatment and recognition of the essential work you do. You can help by sending us a note describing your work experiences and issues you are facing now.  

April 7, 2020
 
OMCE Members Eligible

Applications are now being accepted for the 2020 OPEIU Student Debt Reduction Program. Full details, rules and applications can be found at OPEIU.org under the Member Resources/Union Benefits link, as well as on the OPEIU app*.

OPEIU will provide five awards of $2,500 to OPEIU members who have at least $10,000 in student debt and are able to prove their account is current. A member can receive an award only once in a lifetime, and must have completed an associate or undergraduate degree.

 Because the application must be signed by the OMCE President to attest to OMCE membership for 12 months, please be sure that your complete application reaches us by June 20, 2020. E-mail to nysomce@gmail.com.

GOER announces agreement on Comp Time
April 6, 2020

Goer has reached agreements with the unions that have employees who earn comp time for the hours worked between 37.5 and 40 hours of work.  We are extending this to employees who are M/C. Directly below is how the extension is to be administered. If any time has been forfeited, please restore the comp time to those employees. This guidance is to be liberally applied.     

Certain eligible employees are entitled to compensatory time off on a straight-time basis for time worked in excess of 37.5  hours but not in excess of 40 hours in a workweek. Some of that compensatory time is scheduled to be  liquidated not later than the close of the fiscal year following the one in which it was earned which is March 31, 2020 or it is lost.  For all such compensatory time off scheduled to be liquidated, the parties agree that such time to liquidate those hours shall be extended until December 31, 2020, for employees engaged in the COVID-19 response efforts or unable to utilize this time due to those ongoing response efforts who would otherwise forfeit such time. Thereafter, forfeiture of such time shall be governed by current rules.  

We will advise if this time frame is extended. 

GOER announces suspension of forfeiture of personal leave
April 6, 2020

GOER Director Michael Volforte  issued the following announcement, We are pleased to announce that we have reached agreement with ALL unions that have employees that earn personal leave to suspend the forfeiture of personal leave accruals as follows. This also includes M/C employees as well. Please take steps necessary to restore any personal leave that may have been forfeited that is contrary to the guidance below. This guidance is to be liberally applied. Please note that between the dates includes both 3/9/20 and 5/31/20. 

Employees engaged in the response efforts or who are unable to utilize “Personal Leave” (PL) due to ongoing response efforts who would otherwise forfeit unused PL on their anniversary date shall be allowed to carry such unused PL forward. This shall only apply to unused PL that was or would have been forfeited by bargaining unit members between the dates of 3/9/20 to 5/31/20. (For example, a bargaining unit member has an anniversary date of 3/24/20, they still have 1 remaining day of PL as 3/23/20 and due to the response effort is unable to use the PL day. In this case on 3/24/20 this member would be allowed to have 6 PL days. Five (5) new PL days in addition to the 1 carried forward). All personal leave standing to the employee’s credit on their anniversary date falling between 3/9/20 and 5/31/20 (in this example 3/24/20) would expire on the day before their following anniversary date, if unused.

This shall be applicable to all bargaining unit members who earn personal leave.

Salary Checks Released
April 1, 2020

The State Comptroller announced "With the complete passage of the 2020-2021 state budget expected today (4/2/2020) state employee paychecks and direct deposits have been released by the State Comptroller."

Budget Update
March 31, 2020

Executive Budget Proposals on Retiree Health Insurance were omitted from the Budget. These proposals, implementation of differential health care premium contributions, maintaining reimbursement of the Medicare Part B standard premium for state retirees at current levels, and eliminating the taxpayer subsidy for the Medicare Part B Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) for High Income State Retirees, were all removed from the budget. OMCE along with retiree and employee organizations had opposed these provisions. Thank you to those who joined our efforts.

The possible delay in paycheck distribution  for the April 1, 2020 Administration paychecks due to the lack of a budget or budget extender bill should be resolved as soon as the Legislature passes and the Governor signs the 2020-21 state budget or budget extender to provide for the continuing operation of state government.

More to come when the budget bills are passed.

OMCE MEMBERS---Identity Theft and Fraud Protection Program available to OMCE members through OPEIU. Check it out now.

Your Union is Here for You

During these uncertain times, OPEIU members can have peace of mind knowing your union is here to help. Seeing a rise in identity theft and fraud during the COVID-19 pandemic, OPEIU reminds all members to sign up immediately for OPEIU's FREE Identity Protection Benefit.

Make sure you are protected - sign up here today!

Through your union, all OPEIU members have a proactive, comprehensive defense against identity theft, all at no cost to you.

OPEIU has contracted one of the nation's leading identity protection solutions, InfoArmor®, to protect members against this $16 billion crime that impacted 15.4 million Americans last year alone.

Sign up today at www.OPEIUidProtect.com. You can also activate by calling 855-990-0994. Don’t delay; activate your benefits today.

If you do become a victim of identity fraud, InfoArmor’s trained experts will help you to restore your identity as best as possible to what it was before the incident. This can save you hundreds of hours of your own time and productivity. It can also save you money.

Features of this benefit include:

• Privacy Advocate® Remediation: The Privacy Advocates are CITRMS® Certified experts in identity restoration. A Privacy Advocate will act as a dedicated case manager to act on behalf of the victim and resolve the issue from start to case completion.

• Digital Exposure Report: This interactive, easy-to-read report summarizes what a real-time deep Internet search finds out about a subscriber, offers a Privacy Grade and tips to better secure personal information.

• Internet Surveillance: Internet Surveillance constantly monitors the underground economy and dark rooms to uncover compromised, sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, wallet items and login credentials including emails and passwords.

Make sure you are protected - sign up here today!

Empire Plan LiveHealth Online Telehealth Services
March 26, 2020

The Civil Service Department notified us that the Empire Plan is doing all it can to support its members through this unprecedented time. Effective March 25, 2020 Empire Plan members, employees and retirees, will have access to LiveHealth Online Telehealth services through Empire BlueCross. This benefit is available to Empire Plan members at no cost through December 31, 2020. To access LiveHealth Online please visit empireblue.com/nys. Step by step instructions are HERE.

M/C 2020 salary increases

OMCE is receiving many inquiries about the status of the M/C 2020 salary increases, performance advances and longevity payments due effective April 1, 2020. We talked to GOER staff, left messages for Payroll and Budget staff and wrote to Budget Director Mujica and GOER Director Volforte urging them to ensure that M/Cs are treated fairly and equitably which means these statutory increases are paid on time.

OMCE Working Remotely

You probably have heard that the Governor has called for a mandatory statewide requirement that all businesses must adhere to---no more than 50% of the workforce may be on the premises.

Although OMCE staff is working from home we are here to work for you and provide the information and services you need. Staff will check and respond to emails throughout the day and will respond to messages left on our phone as quickly as possible. OMCE President Barbara Zaron will be available and working closely with our staff as we navigate through this new environment.

Stay safe and healthy!

Pilot Statewide Telecommuting Programs for M/C, CSEA, PEF and UUP-represented Employees

The Telecommuting Pilot Program is effective immediately and remains in effect through May 14, 2020

Click on the following to download::
Memo (PDF)
Bulletin (PDF)
Application (MS Word)

COVID-19 Non-Essential Employee Guidance

Please click HERE to read the memo from Director of State Operations and Infrastructure, Kelly Cummings

Guidance on Employee Quarantine Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Please click HERE to read the memo from Michael N. Volforte, Director of Governor's Office of Employee Relations

OMCE testimony at Joint Legislative Budget Hearing:Workforce Development

OMCE President testifies at Joint Legislative Budget Hearing

OMCE President Barbara Zaron discussed OMCE's position on selected Executive Budget workforce related issues at the Joint Legislative Budget Hearing on Workforce Development on February 5, 2020. She urged passage and enactment of OMCE's Retiree Pay Parity bill, A2462/S4079 and support for the Governor's proposals to Protect and Strengthen Unions to be extended to OMCE on behalf of MC employees. Barbara also discussed OMCE's opposition to the Governors Proposals related to Retiree Health Insurance Reimbursement---Elimination of Medicare IRMAA Part B reimbursement; Proposal to Cap Medicare Part B reimbursement; Implementation of Differential Health Insurance reimbursement based on years of service for new civilian employees hired after October 1, 2020.

Download written testimony here

If you wish to view the recorded hearing testimony go to either nysenate.gov or nyassembly.gov

OMCE Executive Director position available
February 5, 2020

OMCE, a member governed labor organization is seeking applicants for the position of Executive Director. Interested applicants should email resumes to nysomce@gmail.com, Subject: ED Search or mail to NYS OMCE, 5 Pine West Plaza, Suite 513, Albany NY 12205, Attention ED Search. Resumes must be received by February 28, 2020.

Download the Job Description Here

February 4, 2020 OMCE Members OPEIU Scholarship Applications Available

APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2020 OPEIU SCHOLARSHIPS: the John Kelly Labor Studies Scholarship, the Howard Coughlin Memorial Scholarship and the Romeo Corbeil/Gilles Beauregard Summer Camp scholarship, are now available.

THE APPLICATIONS ARE DUE AT OPEIU BY APRIL 30, 2020---OMCE MEMBERS MUST ENSURE THAT THEIR APPLICATIONS REACH OMCE BY APRIL 15 SO WE CAN VERIFY MEMBERSHIP, ENSURE THE APPLICATION IS COMPLETE AND COMPLETE OUR ENDORSEMENT OF THE APPLICATION. OPEIU HAS INFORMED US THAT ANY APPLICATION THAT IS INCOMPLETE OR UNSIGNED WILL BE RETURNED TO OMCE FOR FOLLOW UP.

This is a very popular program. If you plan to apply please follow the OPEIU directions carefully to maximize your chance of success.

Applications now are being accepted for the 2020 OPEIU educational scholarships, and all members are encouraged to apply. Full details, rules and applications can be found at OPEIU.org under the Member Resources link, as well as on the OPEIU app*.

Scholarship opportunities include the Howard Coughlin Memorial Scholarship for OPEIU members and dependents, and the John Kelly Labor Studies Scholarship for OPEIU members who are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in labor studies, industrial relations and union leadership and administration.

Scholarships are also available for children of OPEIU members to attend the Romeo Corbeil/Gilles Beauregard Memorial summer camp, July 19-24, 2020, at the University of Missouri Campus in Columbia, Mo.

Full details, rules and applications are available at OPEIU.org under the Member Resources link. Apply today!

Governor's Budget State Workforce Proposals

On Tuesday, January 21, 2020 Governor Cuomo released his Executive Budget for State Fiscal year 2020-2021. The following is a brief summary of the State Workforce provisions found in the Budget Briefing Book which provides projected increases in staffing in selected agencies, decreases in staffing in other agencies to be achieved through attrition, and the Governor's proposals to impact retiree health insurance:
---eliminate the subsidy for the Medicare Part B IRMAA premiums
---cap state reimbursement of Medicare Part B Standard Premiums for state retirees at $144.60 per month
---implement differential health care premium contributions for new civilian hires at retirement based on years of service

The Executive Budget is posted at budget.ny.gov if you wish to find more information.

OMCE has opposed these and/or similar proposals in past years and has begun to discuss our opposition to this year's proposals with state legislators. We also plan to discuss our opposition to these retiree health insurance proposals in testimony at the Joint Legislative Budget hearing on Workforce Development on February 5.

Download excerpt from the Budget Briefing Book

Treatment Team Leader Exam Applicants
January 15, 2020

OMCE has received inquiries about the availability of a study guide for the Treatment Team Leader exam series being held on February 29, 2020. Neither the Civil Service Department nor OMCE have a Treatment Team Leader specific study guide. There is, however, a general Test Study Guide available through Civil Service that may be helpful. Go to cs.ny.gov, click on Exams open to State Employees--scroll down to Resources, then click on Test Guides and Resources Booklets.

December 18, 2019  (New Benefit Announced)
The Fuel Buyers Savings

Download the Fuel Buyers Group Flyer

OMCE Fuel Buyers Group Letter

Visit online at: https://www.nypirg.org/fbg/omce/

Retiree Earnings Cap Increased to $35,000
December 12, 2019

On December 6, 2019 Governor Cuomo signed the bill, S1866B Breslin/A2858B McDonald to increase the amount a  local or state government retiree can earn when returning to state employment without a reduction in pension benefits. The earnings cap is increased from $30,000 to $35,000 for calendar year 2020 and thereafter, the first increase since 2007. OMCE has been a strong supporter of this legislation and is pleased that some of our retired members who returned to state employment will be able to benefit from this increase. We all can benefit from the work of these experienced retirees who can help to maintain a skilled knowledgeable workforce and provide the opportunity for staff training and succession planning while we continue to advocate for fully staffing state agencies.

NYSHIP Rates and Deadlines for 2020 released

The NYS Department of Civil Service (CS) announced the New York State Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP) Option Transfer Period and Pre-Tax Contribution Program (PTCP) is now open through December 31, 2019  If you want to change your health insurance plan or change your pre-tax contribution, now is the time to do it. Employees of agencies that are Business Services Center (BSC) customers should send completed forms by December 31, 2019  (Health Insurance Transaction Form PS-404)  to the BSC through email---BSCHRForms@ogs.ny.gov, Fax 518-457-1879, or mail  BSC Benefits Administration, W. Averell Harriman State office Campus, 1220 Washington Avenue, Building 5, Floor 4, Albany, NY 12226-1900.

You can find more information on the BSC or CS websites to learn how to: Transfer your health insurance between plans, Elect to receive a financial incentive when you opt-out of NYSHIP coverage because you have other qualifying coverage, and Enroll or stop participating in the PTCP to pay for your health insurance premiums with pre-tax dollars.You can also find the costs of the various NYSHIP plans on the websites. if you have questions you may want to check with your agency Health Benefits Administrator (HBA) or the Business Services Center.

December 2019 New Member Benefit

OMCE members are eligible for a new OPEIU membership benefit-the OPEIU Low-Cost Degree Program--an online Bachelor's Degree in business administration or teacher education. OMCE members can access information through the OMCE member benefits page.

Retiree Pay Parity Bill
November 7, 2019

The Senate passed the bill during the 2019 session; the Assembly did not act on the bill. For the 2020 session OMCE has begun meeting with legislators to discuss strategy for passing the bill and meetings are planned with more legislators and legislative staff. We are focusing on trying to get the bill provisions included 1) in the Governor's Executive Budget proposal----and if that effort is not successful, 2) in the Senate and Assembly one house budget bills.

OMCE recently wrote to the Directors of the Budget Division and Governor's Office of Employee Relations to encourage the inclusion of the Retiree Pay Parity bill in the Governor's Executive Budget. At a meeting with GOER this week we discussed the need to achieve closure on this issue, which we have worked on for 10 years, through the enactment of the proposed pay parity program. We are reaching out for a meeting with Budget also.

Proposals for active MC Employees---At the meeting with GOER we also discussed the need to enhance compensation and benefits for MC employees to make the jobs more attractive and less difficult to fill. These proposals include creation of longevity steps for MCs grade 18 and above, re-establishment of the Vacation Buyback Program and creation of an "opt out" for the IPP program which would restore the accrual of 13 days of sick leave per year for MC employees. 

OMCE Board charts course for next year

The OMCE Board of Directors, at its September 13 meeting welcomed the four incumbents, Raemel Pascual, Robert Pratt, Gary Solomon and Barbara Zaron who will serve another term and two new Board members Debra Paternoster and Gary Rinaldi. Kevin O'Buckley who retired from the Board was recognized for his contributions to and on behalf of OMCE. After a lively discussion of OMCE's achievements and yet to be accomplishments the Board re-elected the current officers to a new one year term and expressed its support for the efforts begun by Barbara Zaron and Ray LaMarco, OMCE's new Executive Director, to review our processes, programs, staffing and other resources as well as recruitment opportunities and strategies to meet the challenges that lie ahead. OMCE officers are President Barbara Zaron, First VP Chad Shelmidine, Second VP Bill McCartney, Secretary Caroline Westbrook and Treasurer Bob Perez.

During the next year OMCE will focus on;

• providing representation for individual members on a broad spectrum of workplace issues

• obtaining passage and enactment of our Pay Parity Bill for retirees which was passed by the Senate in 2018 and 2019 but was not acted on by the Assembly

• continuing to advocate for Longevity Payments for all MC employees grade 18 and above. A third longevity step---at 15 years at job rate--- will be implemented effective April 2020 for eligible grade 17 and below MC employees

•  continuing to advocate for re-establishing a Vacation Exchange program, Succession Planning, Creating an "Opt Out" for the IPP program and beginning planning for post 2020 compensation and benefits increases

• implementing some new recruitment and communication methods

Watch your mail for Ray's letter introducing himself and plans to reach out and engage the MC workforce. We look forward to talking to you  

S4079 update

The Assembly did not act on the bill. We plan to meet soon with legislative and administration staff to discuss moving this bill to passage next year. 

OMCE Executive Director Joe Sano Retiring

On July 31, 2019 Joseph B. Sano (Joe) OMCE Executive Director will retire from the position he has held for 21+ years.

OMCE's Board of Directors and staff are extremely grateful for Joe's service, leadership and accomplishments in advancing OMCE's mission to advocate for and represent the Management/Confidential (M/C) employees of New York State. This translates to representing individual M/C employees in workplace employment and disciplinary matters and fighting to ensure that M/C employees receive the pay and benefits equity received by other New York State employees.

Joe has been instrumental in OMCE's continued success and growth. He pioneered our outreach efforts, negotiated an affiliation agreement with the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) which provides financial and program support and opened the opportunity for OMCE to work within the aegis of the NYS AFL-CIO, developed a wide variety of voluntary member benefit programs all of which have grown our membership.

He also built a cadre of human resources/labor relations professionals to serve as OMCE legal defense representatives to represent and protect the employment related rights of state M/C employees, a major part of our business.

"Joe's retirement will be deeply felt by staff and members alike. He has been OMCE's Executive Director for half of its lifetime and personally involved in every aspect of its work. He will be missed as a leader, friend, and for me a valued partner in ensuring the success and viability of OMCE, said OMCE President  Barbara Zaron. While our relationship will change we look forward to Joe's continuing affiliation with us for years to come."

Prior to joining OMCE, Joe worked for New York State for several years and had previously served as Education Director and the first Executive Director of the Public Employees Federation (PEF) the union that represents the Professional, Scientific and Technical NYS employees.

OMCE's new Executive Director effective August 1, 2019 will be Raymond LaMarco. Ray recently retired from New York State after 30+ years of employment most recently as Assistant Commissioner Director of Administrative Services at the NYS Department of Transportation, responsible for all aspects of Human Resources Management. Ray has extensive human resources and labor/employee relations experience and is also a long-time OMCE member. We expect a seamless transition. 

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Information Regarding ERS Arrears Before Tax Deductions (Deduction Code 608)
Members of the New York State and Local Retirement System (NYSLRS) may see ERS Arrears before tax deductions (Deduction Code 608) in certain paychecks.  Although noted as “Arrears”, this deduction code is used for both service credit purchases and contribution deficiencies.

• When an incorrect contribution amount is reported on your behalf, this will be identified and corrected in the next pay check(s) and will show on your pay check as an ERS Arrears deduction. This change in our process will ensure that contribution deficiencies are paid timely, thereby reducing interest owed.

• A timing mismatch between NYSLRS and PayServ occurred when implementing the Tier 6 FYE20 contribution rates. This has resulted in some members having ERS Arrears deducted and then refunded in the same paycheck. This began with the 5/29 paycheck and has continued to occur.  We are working on resolving this issue and will inform you as soon as it has been rectified. Where owed, refunds will be provided to affected employees as soon as possible.

Please direct questions regarding this deduction to NYSLRS by filling out the secure online NYSLRS Contact Us form at https://www.osc.state.ny.us/retire/contact_us/index.php  You may also contact the NYSLRS Call Center at 1-866-805-0990 or 518-474-7736.

Visit freecollege.opeiu.org today to learn more about other courses offered through the program and start your path toward a FREE  associate’s degree with OPEIU. 

Canadian members, please contract Luis Rosa atlrosa@egcc.edu.

To learn more about all the benefits available to OPEIU members,  visit opeiu.org.  Visit us at www.opeiu.org  80 Eighth Avenue, 20th Floor, New York, New York 10011

 S4079 OMCE's pay parity bill for MC retirees whose 2009/2010 salary increases were withheld is on its way to passage in the Senate. The bill should move from the Senate Rules Committee to the Floor today and be voted on by the full Senate today or tomorrow.

UPDATE: The Senate passed S4079 on June 11.

The bill is still in the Government Employees Committee in the Assembly. Contact committee chair Peter Abbate , 518-455-3053 to move the bill in the Assembly.

Attention NYSHIP Empire Plan Participants

Westchester Medical Center Health Network Termination Effective June 1, 2019, the Westchester Medical Center Health Network facilities will no longer be in-network until they reach agreement (talks are continuing) with Empire BlueCross. Westchester Medical Center Health Network consists of the following facilities:

• Bon Secours - Good Samaritan Hospital

• Bon Secours - Mercy Community Hospital

• Bon Secours - St. Anthony's Hospital

• Mid- Hudson Regional Hospital

• Westchester Medical Center

Affected enrollees were mailed a notice of this termination on May 1, 2019, which included the information that under these circumstances, Westchester Medical Center Health Network will only provide the following in-network services:

• Cases of emergency;

• If no in-network hospital exists that can provide the services required;

• If a network hospital is not available within a 30-mile radius from your home;

• For continuation of care for pregnancy or health risk; and

• For any services that were previously preauthorized.

If Empire Plan enrollees choose to use Westchester Medical Center Health Network, all other services will be covered on an out-of-network basis. They will be responsible for paying ten percent (10%) of the billed charges for covered services, up to the annual coinsurance maximum amount. To find an alternate network hospital or learn more, enrollees may call 1-877-7-NYSHIP (1-877-769-7447) and select option 2.

Second Call - Nominations for OMCE Board of Directors

Nominations due June 7, 2019

The process of identifying nominees for the 2019 OMCE Board of Directors election is underway. Several current Board Members have expressed their interest in running for a new term.  We are looking for additional nominees so are asking OMCE members to consider nominating themselves or another member to run for a seat on the Board.

The OMCE Board of Directors is charged with providing guidance and direction and setting policy for the organization. Board Members are advocates of many and diverse interests and come with different experiences. As our governing board, they address issues of importance and concern to M/C employees, reach agreement through consensus and commission the OMCE staff, law firm and consultants to take necessary and appropriate action.

The Nominations Committee is seeking applications from OMCE members who are  active state M/C employees who are willing to commit the time, energy and talent needed to address issues of concern to the approximately 10,000 M/C employees in the Executive Branch who are OMCE members or are eligible for OMCE membership and M/C employees in other branches of government.

If you are ready, willing and able to invest in OMCE by giving some of your time and energy to help us address issues such as protection of pension and health insurance benefits, M/C compensation and benefits, conditions of employment, workforce and succession management, retiree benefits and many others that we are faced with, contact us now.

Five (5) seats are available for 3-year terms in this year’s election, one additional seat, for a 2-year term is also available due to the untimely death of a Board member. Send your resume and a statement suitable for use on the ballot describing your interest in serving on the board, background, priority issues and interests, etc. by June 7, 2019 close of business. Email to nysomce@gmail.com  or regular mail, OMCE, 5 Pine West Plaza, Suite 513, Albany Ny 12205.

MC 2% Salary Increase and performance advance (step where applicable) payment is expected to be made on May 23, 2019 (Institutional Payroll) and May 29, 2019 (Administration Payroll), retroactive to March 28, 2019 and April 4, 2019, respectively.

Budget Bulletin D-1140- M/C Salary Increases

Division of the Budget has issued the Budget Bulletin, D-1140, which provides the guidelines for payment of the 2019  2% general salary increases, longevity payments and performance advances to eligible M/C employees and other unrepresented employees in the Executive Branch.

M/C employees on the payroll as of March 28, 2019 Institution payroll and April 4, 2019 Administration payroll are eligible to receive a 2% general salary increase. The payment is expected to be made on May 23, 2019 Institution payroll retroactive to March 28 and April 4 respectively.

Eligible M/C employees may receive a Performance Advance if on the payroll as of March 28, 2019 Institution and April 4, 2019 Administration payroll. Advances will be paid  to eligible M/C employees in positions with statutorily established salary ranges or in Non-Statutory (NS) positions with salary ranges that were equated-to-grade on April 1, 2019. Employees must have served in an advance-eligible position for 13 payroll periods prior to April 1, 2019 and have a salary within the salary range for their position. Payments are expected to be made May 23 Institution and May 29 Administration payroll retroactive to March 28 and April 4 respectively.

Eligible M/C employees (those at or below Grade 17) may receive a longevity payment if on the payroll as of March 31, 2019. Payments are expected to be made on May 23 Institution and May 29 Administration payroll. Effective April 1, 2019 longevity payments shall be made of $1,500 to eligible employees with at least five, but less than ten, years of continuous service at or above the job rate and of $3,000 to eligible employees with ten or more years of continuous service at the job rate. Such payments are in addition to and are not considered part of basic annual salary and will be made by separate check.

For Non Statutory (NS) positions not equated to a salary grade---performance advance plans are required to be submitted to DOB. These plans are required to be submitted by June 19 by agencies using NYSTEP and by June 28 for non-NYSTEP agencies.

Additional information if applicable will be posted after issuance of the Payroll Bulletin.  

NYSHIP EMPIRE PLAN Co-Payments Change/ “NEW” Special Open Transfer Period Announced

Effective April 1, 2019 and as a result of recent collective bargaining agreements certain plan, formulary and co-payments for the Empire Plan option under NYSHIP health insurance have changed.  The newest approach in negotiations is to avoid negotiating the % paid by the employees/employer and to review and change certain benefits, co-pays etc. as a more equitable means of fairly funding these plans. OMCE will continue to monitor the effectiveness of this approach.  These changes were extended to those bargaining units, the legislature and MC employees.

Click here to obtain the list of changes.

Because of these changes NYSHIP enrollees will be given the option to change their NYSHIP provider to any of the options during this May 1-May 31st, 2019 Special Option Transfer Period.  During this time you may choose The Empire Plan or a NYSHIP-approved Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) serving the area where you live or work. Please see the April 2019 NYSHIP RATE Changes publication (click here) to see rates and effective dates for each option.

JOB OPENING: (Capital District Area) US Government

If you are retired and/or looking to leave NYS service the Federal Government  is looking for temporary Budget Technicians ($33,721-54,299). While a temporary appointment it could be extended etc.  Click Here

M/C RAISES ARE COMING…BUDGET KILLS ATTACK ON RETIREE REIMBURSEMENTS

April 1, 2019  Albany:

Governor Cuomo’s program bill ( A-06965, S04936) has now passed both the Assembly and the Senate and will soon be signed by the Governor. The bill contains the increases for the State Troopers (Parts A & B), the Corrections’ Officers (Part C) and the MCs (Part D).  The bill provides for 2% COLA in 2019-20 and 2% COLA in 2020-21. (see salary charts) Once the Senate acts and the Governor signs it into law, DOB and the Comptroller’s offices will issue their respective Budget and Payroll Bulletins. As stated in earlier posts Longevity Pay (G17 and below) has been increased and a 15 years at Job Rate payment established.

It will take time for DOB to wrap up the budget and issue all the required documents and bulletins. The increases will be retroactive to the 1st pay periods of this fiscal year which start on 4/4/2019 for the Administration Payroll and 3/28/2019 for the Institution Payroll. When issued OMCE will post the budget bulletin and the actual pay dates for the retroactive check and the longevity separate check.

The $175B budget is now a reality but the Governor’s proposals: to freeze state retirees’ reimbursement for Medicare at $135.50; to end Medicare reimbursement to those who are designated as IRMAA (higher income base); to design a new retiree share payment schedule for new hires, has been defeated. This annual assault on retirees’ Medicare reimbursements is once again history.  It is anticipated that the next Executive Budget will again propose some attack on these benefits.

Thanks to all who joined our call for action on all of these issues.

OMCE 2019 Board of Directors Nominations Open

Each year at this time we begin our search for OMCE members who may be interested in serving on the OMCE Board of Directors. There are five seats to be filled this year, each for a three-year term.

The OMCE Board of Directors is charged with providing guidance, direction, and setting policy for the organization. Board members are advocates of many and diverse interests and reflect different experiences. As our governing board, members address issues of importance and concern to M/C employees and retirees, reach agreement through consensus, and direct the OMCE staff, law firm and consultants to take necessary and appropriate action.

The nominations process is easy since a member can self-nominate. Just submit your resume, a letter stating your interest to run for a Board seat and a statement that can be used for the ballot, describing your background and experience, the issues and priorities you would want to focus on as a Board member and why members should choose you. Nominations are reviewed by the Nominations Committee members who will present a slate of nominees to the Board and, if needed, arrange for the mail ballot. Nominations, via e-mail or regular mail, must be received in the OMCE office no later than June 7, 2019. E mail to nysomce@gmail.com, subject Nominations, or regular mail to OMCE, 5 Pine West Plaza, Suite 513, Albany NY 12205, Attention Nominations Committee.

Board members are expected to participate in four Board meetings per year (March, June, September, December) in person, video conference or phone and to serve on at least one committee. Board members receive no compensation but travel expenses for OMCE meetings are reimbursed at state rates.

OMCE is an organization of, by and for M/C employees who choose to join as designation as an M/C employee does not mean automatic enrollment as an OMCE member. OMCE officers and committee members are all volunteers.

We need active working state M/C employees who are interested in being leaders in our ongoing efforts to improve the working conditions and compensation of M/C employees and to ensure their and M/C retirees rights and benefits are protected.

For additional information, contact OMCE at nysomce@gmail.com, 518-456-5241 or from outside area code 518, 1-800-828-6623.

M/C Salary Increases are In the Works

The Assembly version (A6965) of the pay bill for the State Police (Part A) and MCs (Part D) has been introduced.  Pay bills are statutorily required to enact payment of salary and salary increases.  Once the Senate version and this version are passed and signed into law.  DOB will issue the required Budget Bulletin giving the effective dates-(3/28/2019 Institution Pay and Administrative Pay April 4,2019) and anticipated retroactive payment dates for these increases.  Both years indicate a salary increase of 2% over the 2018-2019 salary schedule.  

Longevity pay for G-17 and below has been increased as follows: 5 years at Job Rate=$1500;10 years at job rate=$3000; 15 years at job rate=$4,500.  It is anticipated that this will be paid in a separate check at a date to be announced. (Click here for schedules)

NEW  BENEFIT – ATTENTION VETERANS

Paid Military Leave for Combat Related Health Care Services

Section 242 of the Military Law was amended to entitle State officers and employees paid leave without charge to leave credits for up to five work days of paid leave annually for using any healthcare related services associated with an illness or injury sustained while in a combat theater or combat zone of operations.

The benefit will become available to all eligible Veterans /Employees on April 1, 2019 for the remainder of the 2019 calendar year.  Beginning January 1, 2020, the benefit will be available for the full calendar year.  Military leave for combat related healthcare services is not cumulative and expires at the close of business on the last day of each calendar year.  Employees are not required to have Attendance rules coverage to be granted this leave with pay.

Employees are entitled to a leave of absence with pay for any combat related healthcare services scheduled during the employees’ regular work hours.    Employees who undergo combat related healthcare services outside their regular work schedules do so on their own time. 

Military Leave for Combat Related Health Care Services may be used for either full or partial day absences. 

Employees must provide documentation that they served in a combat theater or combat zone of operations.  Acceptable proof of service includes the employee’s DD214, a certificate of release or discharge from active duty or other department of defense document clearly indication service in a combat theater or combat zone of operations.

If you have any questions regarding these provisions give our office a call at (518) 456-5241.

Send Your Child to Camp this Summer

Apply now for the OPEIU 2019 Romeo Corbeil/Gilles Beauregard  Scholarship Fund Summer Camp

OPEIU will award twenty scholarships for children, between the ages of 13 and 16, of OPEIU members or associate members.

The one-week summer camp will be held July 14-19 at the University of Missouri Campus in Columbia, Mo., and will teach children about the labor movement, while providing fun summer activities such as camping, boating and swimming. 

Applications are due April 30 and winners will be selected and notified by email by May 31.

All rules and regulations, as well as applications for OPEIU scholarships can be obtained from the OPEIU website at www.opeiu.org. Click on Member Resources/OPEIU Membership Benefits link.

Don't miss out!
Apply today.

OMCE Representatives President Barbara Zaron, & OMCE Representative George Delamar
with Tom Di Napoli at the Black & Puerto Rican Legislators Vendor Fair, Feb 16, 2019.

Join Us For a Meal

Attention MC's OMCE Members and Non-Members

You are invited to an OMCE M/C Issues meeting to hear about OMCE's M/C compensation initiatives, the 2019-20 NYS Budget and our 2019 Legislative Priorities.



Wednesday March, 13, 2019 - Noon - 1:30 pm
Luncheon Meeting - Buca di Beppo, 44 Wolf Road, Albany
Buca Buffet will be served - attendance capacity  will be limited to 50.

Please Call 1-800-828-6623 to reserve your spot at one of these events.
(In case of inclement weather call OMCE regarding possible re-scheduling. Email and call will be sent if event is cancelled due to inclement weather.)

Join Us For a Meal

Attention MC's OMCE Members and Non-Members

You are invited to an OMCE M/C Issues meeting to hear about OMCE's M/C compensation initiatives, the 2019-20 NYS Budget and our 2019 Legislative Priorities.

There will be 2 meetings in the greater NYC/Ling Island area, you can attend either event but ACT fast because they will reach seating capacity quickly.

Tuesday, March 19, 2019 - 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Dinner Meeting - Islandia Buffet, 1704 Veterans Memorial Highway, Islandia, NY.

OR

Wednesday March, 20, 2019 - Noon - 1:30 pm
Luncheon Meeting - The White Horse Tavern, 25 Bridge Street, New York, NY.

Please Call 1-800-828-6623 to reserve your spot at one of these events.
(In case of inclement weather call OMCE regarding possible re-scheduling. Email and call will be sent if event is cancelled due to inclement weather.)

OMCE Testimony Before the Joint Legislative Budget Committee - 2/4/2019

Click Here for Full Testimony

OMCE Retiree Dental  - Increase Postponed!

Sometimes it Pays to Complain!

Due to Logistics and fair notice issues the Metropolitan Dental Increase will not occur. Anyone charged the increased rate will be given either a credit on their February Bill (Automatic Withdrawal Clients) and a refund check will be issued to those who pay directly by written check.    

Rates will increase in September 2019. The August billing is for September at the increased rate.

IRMAA (Medicare Part B - Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount)

Instructions:
https://www.cs.ny.gov/employee-benefits/nyship/shared/notices/2019/irmaa-notice-2019.pdf

Claim Form:
https://www.cs.ny.gov/employee-benefits/nyship/shared/notices/2019/irmaa-form-2019.pdf

Take Action Now.. The Retiree Health Insurance You Save May Be Yours

The proposed Executive budget once again seeks to freeze (@$135.50) or end Medicare reimbursement (IRMAA)and create a multi-tiered retiree health insurance cost structure for post 4/1/2019 new hires..Please OPPOSE these changes.. click here.. to TAKE ACTION NOW!

Budget...1st Glance   RETIREE MEDICARE REIMBURSEMENT UNDER ATTACK…AGAIN (updated)

ARTICLE VII PUBLIC PROTECTION AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT (2019-20 PROPOSED Executive Budget)

Part A -Implement Differential Health Care Premium Contributions for New Civilian Hires at Retirement Based on Years of Service. Currently, the taxpayer cost for a retiree with 10 years or more of service is the same as that for a retiree with 30 years of service. Under this proposal, similar to the calculation for pension benefits, taxpayer support for new civilian hires at retirement would vary based on years of service. Those retiring with less than 30 years of service would receive a taxpayer subsidy which is less than that for retirees with 30 or more years of service. Subsidies begin at 10 years of service and gradually increase until they are no different than current levels once an individual reaches 30 years of service. This change will be fully implemented for post April 1, 2019 civilian hires in approximately 30 years once the current retiree group is largely replaced. (emphasis added)

Part B – Cease reimbursement of the Medicare Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts to high income State retirees. Purpose: This bill would eliminate automatic State reimbursement of the Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts (IRMAA) to high income State retirees.

Effective January 1, 2019, with savings beginning in January 2019, elimination of the extra IRMAA subsidy provided to roughly 7,000 IRMAA participants would save $12M annually and reduce unfunded Other Postemployment Benefits (OPEB) liabilities by roughly $360M. This bill would take effect on January 1, 2019 for premiums incurred on or after January 1, 2019.

Part C –Medicare Part B standard premium for eligible State NYSHIP retirees and their dependents at the 2019 level of $135.50 per month. This bill would amend section 167-a of the Civil Service Law to provide that, effective April 1, 2019, State reimbursement to eligible retirees and their dependents for the Medicare Part B standard premium shall not exceed $135.50 per month.

Analysis:

Part A This creates a dual system for civilian state employees hired after April 1, 2019 and their costs for retiree health insurance for themselves and/or dependents.  Another attempt to alter the method on how the State shifts retiree health insurance costs back to the State retiree.  However to make it more “palatable” this time the approach singles out “new hires after April 1, 2019 for the increased retiree health insurance costs.  OMCE is opposed to this cost shifting.  Industry experts indicate that this year an average 5% increase in health insurance costs is anticipated.  NYS NYSHIP rates are showing a 2.8% increase.  The fact that the increase is .8% above the Executive’s self-imposed 2% spending cap continues to unleash this need to squeeze retirees for more contributions.  The fact remains that the State will continue to enjoy the billions in health insurance savings it receives from having Medicare retirees utilizing Medicare as the primary insurance and the NYSHIP as the secondary insurer.  Such a proposed plan hints that current State employees and retirees might be willing to sacrifice a hard won and protected benefit for future hires. OMCE is urging all in the labor movement to oppose the creation of another “dual benefit” structure. 

PART B  This proposal ends the IRMMA reimbursement starting this January 1, 2019

This proposed budget once again revisits the cost shifting of retiree health care. IRMMA ( Income Related Monthly Medicare Adjustment) participants are cast as “scapegoats” receiving something special rather than receiving a hard won court tested benefit that ALL original Medicare employee expenses ( Part D was not part of the original Medicare) are reimbursable under Section 167A of Civil Service Law.  The State continues to discount the Savings earned by Medicare being the first payor of retiree/Medicare recipients expenses prior to NYSHIP.

Part C  This creates a maximum Medicare reimbursement of $135.50 per month.

Section 167A of Civil Service Law would be changed to create this reimbursement rate.  If Medicare Part B costs increase for the employee by change in the Federal rate then the State’s reimbursement is frozen at the $135.50 level.  

Over 50 years of savings to the taxpayers are conveniently overlooked by this proposal. Billions have been saved by having Medicare serve as the primary health insurer for the eligible State retirees with the NYSHIP serving a secondary role. The overall 2.8% NYSHIP increased cost falls far short of the national average shown as 5%.   This is a 50+ year reimbursement that is part of the NYS employee benefits. foundation that allows the State to couple Medicare with the NYSHIP resulting in savings for the State when compared with the expenses projected without Medicare insurance absorption of the majority of these retiree charges.

OMCE will join with all other public sector AFL-CIO affiliated unions and others to fight these changes..AGAIN!!

Direct billed member/participants are getting a rate increase notification letter.

While insurance increases are actuarial driven and often anticipated, it is the lack of subscriber contact that is most troubling.   

OMCE is announcing the revised rates to all new potential subscribers and believed that Met was contacting all currently enrolled about the increase so that they could plan accordingly.  This was not done for those with "ACH withdrawals" and for that we apologize.  

We are for the most part members are happy with this extensive dental program but NOT with the unannounced increase.  We are currently negotiating with EMBLEM health for a "no annual limit" plan that offers a similar network with affordability.  This plan like the current MET one is designed to help control costs for those with serious dental health needs and not for those who just desire routine dental care. 

2019 PAID FAMILY LEAVE (PFL) BENEFIT AND COST INCREASES

New York Paid Family Leave is insurance that may be funded by employees through payroll deductions. Public employers may choose to participate in PFL and those that choose to do so must bargain that participation with their collective bargaining units. Most Executive Branch M/C employees are mandated participants in PFL.  Private sector employers/employees participation is mandated.

Increased benefits have resulted in increased employee deductions.

In 2019, the contribution is 0.153% of an employee’s gross wages each pay period. The maximum annual contribution is $107.97 ( $4.15 per bi-weekly pay.)

Eligible employees can now take up to 10 weeks of Paid Family Leave (PFL) in 2019 for eligible family

The weekly PFL benefit is capped at 55% of the New York State average weekly wage, which for 2019 is $746.41.

Recent legislation expanding PFL to include Bereavement Leave was  VETOED by Governor Cuomo.

You are allowed to “opt out” of PFL if you are retiring within 6 months. If you “opt-out” and do not retire you will need to pay the deduction plus interest. 

Visit  https://paidfamilyleave.ny.gov/ for “opt out” and other PFL information.  

2019 Scholarship Applications

2019 OPEIU Scholarship application links will be posted in January 2019.   
Union Plus Scholarship Application is available now and deadline is January 31, 2019 (click here)

2019 Employee Benefit Changes for Retirees

Please see all changes (PDF)

OMCE PUSHES THE NEW PARITY AGENDA

On November 14, 2018 OMCE President Barbara Zaron and Executive Director Joe Sano met with Mike Volforte, Director, GOER and Lynda Scalzo, M/C Issues Associate, GOER.

Since the State and some state-wide labor organizations have reached agreements on new contracts, the entire parity issue for MCs was again addressed. We have addressed our issues with the Assembly leadership and the incoming leadership of the NYS Senate.. We will continue to make our needs known to all.

We believe that continuing M/C parity with the bargaining unit employee salary schedules dictates that MCs get no less than at least the same COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) increases delineated in the next series of "pay bills" won or to be approved by the bargaining units. Currently that is 2%.

If this is not accomplished the Administration’s announced goal of fair treatment and continuing M/C pay parity will never be achieved.

Additionally, we stressed the following:

• The expansion and adoption of the current up to G-17 “longevity award” program to include M/C Grades 18 to M-8 where individuals have been at the top of grade for 5 years ($1500 award) or have been at the top of their grade for 10 years ($3000 award) and at the top of their grade for 15 year ($4500). This will track the recent CSEA agreement and mimics a PEF bargaining demand

• The re-establishment of a vacation exchange program using the same or similar guidelines in effect the last (2008) time it was offered.

• An “opt out” choice for those enrolled in the IPP (Income Protection Plan) and allow those who “opt out” to earn full (13 days) accruals.

• The State’s final and permanent compliance with the USDOL determination that the civilian pilots at the Division of State Police are "overtime eligible". OT is currently approved pending permanency.

• The passage of the Retiree Parity Award bill. This will grant all eligible MCs a minimum restitution of $70 per month the retiree worked without the receipt of the 2009-10 monies with a maximum $5000 award less any parity payments they may have received. (A new bill must be submitted for the next legislative session and we will post that information when achieved.)

• That all public sector MCs (including all authorities, public benefit corporations etc.) are participating per the statute in the NYS Paid Family Leave Program.

• The State’s research and adoption of the concept of a "phased retirement"/Succession Planning project modeled after the current Federal "phased retirement" program and the OMCE model previously provided as a resource.
  

We welcome the continuing opportunity to share our input and ideas on the anticipated upcoming NYS budget and the need to address the challenging and ongoing MC parity issues.  Now, when the proposed Executive Budget is being finalized and prior to the inauguration of the next Legislative Session, is the optimum time for such meetings. 

OMCE Working for M/C Employees

As published in The Chief/Civil Service Leader, New York, NY November 16, 2018

November 2018 • Barbara Zaron, President

The Organization of NYS Management/Confidential Employees (OMCE) al though not subject to the Janus' decision has closely followed the case, Court De cision and resulting impact.

OMCE is the labor organi zation created by and for M/C employees who are not per mitted by the Taylor Law to be represented by an employ er organization in collective bargaining negotiations. For over 42 years OMCE has worked for New York States' M/C workforce to ensure they receive the pay and benefits equity received by other mem bers of NY States' workforce & we earn our members trust- and their dues payments—by working for them every day.

OMCE's activities include providing representation in Civil Service Law Section 75 discipline matters and all employment-based investi gations; ensuring payment of M/C Performance Advances, Longevity Payments and General Salary increases, advocating for M/C pay pari ty for all including retirees; defending retired and active employees health benefits against annual attacks, mon itoring and taking action when needed re: The NYS Employees Retirement Sys tem, and state agencies and programs.

In preparing for the 2019—2020 budget and leg islative session—OMCE has proposed to the Budget Di rector and Director of GOER that the following proposals be included in the budget:
1) Provide for M/C's gener al salary increases—mini mum 2% for each fiscal year—2019-20, 2020-2021, 2021-2022 to avoid salary compression with those they supervise.
2) Reestablish Vacation Exchange program to allow M/C employees the opportu nity to cash in up to 10 days of accumulated annual leave.
3) Create longevity steps for M/C employees at grade 18 and above. Currently only M/C's at G 17 and below are eligible for longevity pay ments—salary compression is a significant issue and pro viding longevity payments at 5,10 and 15 years at job rate would help alleviate that problem.
4) Create an "Opt Out" for the Income Protection Plan (IPP) M/C's currently accrue 8 days of sick leave rather than 13 days per year that other state employees ac crue. Those that choose to "Opt Out" would go back to the full accruals of 13 days per year and the use of half paid sick leave as defined in the attendance rules.
5) Implement a Succession Planning Initiative similar to that used by the Federal Government the last five years.
6) Retiree Pay Parity: While we have been success ful in restoring for active M/C employees the 2009 and 2010 withheld 7 percent gen eral salary increases, there are M/C's now retired who were unable to receive any, or minimal restoration of that pay. We plan to re-introduce legislation that would pro vide a minimum restoration of $70 per each month the re tiree worked without receipt of the 2009-2010 7 percent monies with a maximum $5000 award as a minimal recompense for the never paid increases.

In addition, OMCE offers a broad spectrum of voluntary benefits for our members.

MEDICARE RATES TO RISE 1.1%       SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS RISE BY 2.8%

Medicare managers announced last week that they will hold increases in Medicare Part B premiums to about 1.1 percent for most enrollees in 2019. For some high-income enrollees, however, premiums will rise 7.4 percent. Medicare Part B is the component of the traditional Medicare program that covers physician services and hospital outpatient care.

Here's a look at how the monthly Part B premiums will change, by annual income level:

•  Individuals earning less than $85,000, and couples earning less than $170,000: $135.50 in 2019, from $134 this year.

• Individuals earnings $160,000 to $500,000, and couples earning $320,000 to $750,000: $433.40 in 2019, from $428.60 this year.

• Individuals earning $500,000 or more, and couples earning $750,000 or more: $460.50 in 2019, from $428.60 this year.

The annual Medicare Part B deductible will increase 1.1 percent, to $185.

Why are high earners paying so much more for Medicare Part B?

Congress has been increasing the share of Medicare costs that high earners pay in recent years. ( Often referred to as IRMMAA payers (Income Related Monthly Medicare Adjustment Act)

For 2018, the top annual income category for Medicare Part B rate-setting purposes was for $160,000 and over for individuals, and for $320,000 and over for couples. Premiums from those Medicare Part B enrollees are supposed to cover 80 percent of their Part B claims.

In the Balanced Budget Act of 2018, Congress added a new annual income category: for individuals earning $500,000 or more and couples earning $750,000 or more. Premiums from Part B enrollees in that income category are supposed to cover 85 percent of those enrollees' Part B claims. How do the Medicare increases compare with the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA)?

The Social Security Administration recently announced that the 2019 Social Security COLA will be 2.8 percent.That means the size of the COLA will be greater than the increase in Medicare premiums for all Medicare enrollees other than the highest-income Medicare Part B enrollees and the enrollees who pay the full cost of the Medicare Part A premiums.

ATTENTION Members and Retirees
Matter of Merton Simpson v. Department of Civil Service

Current or former New York State employees who are African-American or Hispanic may be entitled to part of settlement proceeds from the Matter of Merton Simpson v. Department of Civil Service.   

Background 
The New York State Department of Civil Service administered a test called the promotion test battery from 1996 to 2006.  A similar test was utilized in 1996 for some open competitive titles.   

It was alleged that the tests had a disparate impact on African-American and Hispanic test-takers in a class action federal lawsuit named Merton Simpson et al. v. Department of Civil Service et al.   

List of individuals owed a monetary award 
Settled in 2011, the case resulted in monetary awards to class members. Individuals who never claimed their awards can be found at:    https://www.osc.state.ny.us/ouf/files/settlement.pdf

If you’re on the list, contact Attorney General’s Litigation Bureau at (518) 776-2300 to learn if you’re entitled to an award and how to claim it.

Reminder: OPEIU/OMCE Free College Benefit  Application Deadline is Aug. 22

Don't miss out. Apply Today.

Your union is pleased to offer members access to free college through the OPEIU Free College Benefit, so you and your family (spouse, children, grandchildren and stepchildren are included) can earn an accredited, transferable associate degree with no out-of-pocket cost to you. Please check with your college of choice to validate that course credit will be accepted for transfer.   OMCE active and retired members are members of OPEIU Local 153.

Don’t be left behind! Check out the details at FreeCollege.OPEIU.org or call 888-590-9009 to talk to an advisor today.

Start the Fall right by making your education a top priority. The Fall 2018 semester enrollment ends Aug. 22. 

Complete information and enrollment details are available at FreeCollege.OPEIU.org or by calling 888-590-9009.

This benefit is not currently available in Canada, but OPEIU has made arrangements to cover our Canadian members on a case-by-case basis. Canadian members please contact Luis Rosa at lrosa@EGCC.edu for more information and to apply. Spaces are limited.

We encourage you to take advantage of this valuable new OPEIU/OMCE membership benefit. It pays to belong to OMCE/OPEIU!

Spotlight On OMCE MEMBER BENEFITS

Working Advantage    https://www.workingadvantage.com  Is a web based member service (call/email OMCE  ( 800 828 6623 nysomce@gmail.com) for your passcode if you don’t have it).

Working Advantage offers discounted tickets to DISNEY theme parks, all major national amusement parks, water parks, and through their "Preferred Access™ tickets" you can find great seats to your sporting events, concerts, theater and more!  (Ski resorts during the winter months too!)

Preferred Access™ tickets are available for most high-demand tickets for concerts, college and professional sports and major events around the world. 

Please note that Preferred Access™ tickets are sourced through a variety of ticket sellers who determine the prices which may be above or below the face value of the tickets. Working Advantage does not markup these tickets and therefore they may be typically less expensive then purchasing them from other sites.  They will often have last minute deals on unsold tickets as well for ALL types of events.

2018 Scholarship Winners Announced   …It Pays to Belong!

2018 OPEIU Howard Coughlin Scholarship Award Winner Will Carmello accepts his $6500 national award from OMCE President Barbara Zaron. Pictured are (l-r) President Zaron, Mr. Will Carmello  , Mr. William Carmello (member) and OMCE Executive Director Joe Sano OMCE also awarded runner -up scholarships funded by M3 Technology Inc. of $250 to Jamil Alexander (Clark Alexander member), Claire Carmello (William Carmello member), Corey Chevren (Michael Chevren member), Morgan Connelly (Kevin Connelly member), Mariya James (Gimal James member) Michael and Nicholas Miliano (Michael Miliano member) and Christopher Munoz (Cheryl Munoz member). Congratulations to all OPEIU/OMCE scholarship winners and their families.  Please check our website and the Member Benefit section for updated 2019 Union Plus and OPEIU scholarship information as it is announced.

We urge everyone to vote in the upcoming September 13 primaries and November 6, general elections. Information on mail registration, in-person registration, change of address, absentee ballot and change of party enrollment is available at www.elections.ny.gov

The Governor's Office of Employee Relations has advised us that floating holidays have been designated in lieu of fixed holidays for Election Day, 2018, and Lincoln's Birthday, 2019. State offices will be open on Election Day, November 6, 2018 and Lincoln’s Birthday, February 12, 2019. Managerial/Confidential employees will on each of those dates receive credit for a holiday to be used on a date of their choice.. The credit(s) for these two floating holidays will be carried as separate entries on time records and will not be merged with holiday leave or holiday compensatory time. Floating holiday credit may be charged in quarter-hour units (or smaller units pursuant to local agreements). Each floating holiday must be used by November 4, 2019, and February 11, 2020, respectively. For employees in the above units, therefore, November 6, 2018 and February 12, 2019, will not be observed as holidays and are to be treated as regular workdays.  Please consult the updated Attendance and Leave Manual if further clarification is needed.

RETIREE PARITY BILL STALLS IN LEGISLATURE

The MC Retiree Parity Bill did not pass in this year’s legislative session. The Senate version received quick attention and was awaiting passage in the Senate (on Third Reading). Meanwhile the Assembly version (A10093) languished at the hands of Assembly Program Counsel who called for a single word change (“…all “such” retirees….” Counsel wanted the word “such” removed). This was quickly done in the Senate version creating S7771A, but the Assembly rules called for a new amended version (A10909) to be resubmitted to committee for consideration.

Based on our information the Governor’s office indicated that if the Bill passed it would be vetoed since NO SPECIFIC funding was in the budget even though funds are allocated for such settlements. Thus, the Senate held final action knowing that the Assembly leadership had bowed to Executive pressure.

We appreciate the efforts of Senator Young (Senate Finance Chair) and Assembly Member Patricia Fahy for her efforts to keep our bill alive and resubmitted. The session ended before any opportunity to move the Assembly version could be championed.

The OMCE Board has directed that this issue must never be forgotten.  Our progress in the Senate must be duplicated in the Assembly and result in a final passed bill if we cannot convince the Governor to provide budget funding.

S7771 and A10093/A 10909 will be resubmitted to ALL for budget inclusion and as a stand-alone bill in 2019-20.

Parity Bill for Retirees IS Moving !

Albany Monday May 14, 2018: The State Senate today moved S7771 out of committee and directly to a floor Calendar (# 1165). A Senate vote can be imminent.

The Assembly is slated to move their version, A10093 on Tuesday May 15 out of committee and hopefully to Ways and Means/or the Rules Committee and then to a Floor (Action) Calendar.

Keep those electronic letters coming. (See below and click on text) They do get counted and reported!

TAKE ACTION NOW!  The injustice and financial harm caused by the 2009-10 salary withholds, continues to plague many MC retirees and those retiring in the near future. A10093/S7771 will begin to bring some relief to those who never received any restoration or limited restoration of what they were promised and lost.

4/19/18---OMCE 2018 Board of Directors Nominations Open

Each year at this time we begin looking for OMCE members who may be interested in serving on the OMCE Board of Directors. There are five seats to be filled this year, each for a three-year term.

The process is easy and simple since a member can self-nominate. Just submit your resume, a letter stating your interest to run for a Board seat and a statement that can be used for the ballot, describing your background, the issues and priorities you would want to focus on as a Board member and why members should choose you. Nominations are reviewed by the Nomination Committee members who will present a slate of nominees to the OMCE Board and, if needed, arrange for the mail ballot. Nominations, via email or regular mail, must be received in the OMCE office no later than June 6, 2018.

Board members are expected to participate in four Board meetings per year (March, June, September/October, December) in person or by phone and to serve on at least one committee. Board members are not paid to serve on the Board; travel expenses are reimbursed at state rates.

OMCE is an organization of, by and for M/C employees who choose to join, since designation as an M/C does not mean automatic enrollment as an OMCE member. OMCE officers and committee members are all volunteers for these positions.

We need active working state M/C employees who are interested in being leaders in the fight to improve the working conditions of M/C employees and to ensure their rights and benefits are protected.

For additional information, contact OMCE at nysomce@gmail.com, 518-456-5241, or from outside area code 518, at 1-800-828-6623.

TAKE ACTION NOW!  The injustice and financial harm caused by the 2009-10 salary withholds, continues to plague many MC retirees and those retiring in the near future. A10093/S7771 will begin to bring some relief to those who never received any restoration or limited restoration of what they were promised and lost.

BUDGET BULLETIN RELEASED SALARY INCREASES SCHEDULED
Albany, NY   4/13/2018

As anticipated the 2018-2019 Budget Bulletin authorizing MC Salary Increases has arrived. Budget Bulletin D-1137 (https://www.budget.ny.gov/guide/bprm/bulletins/d-1137.pdf) spells out the details of these payments.  The main points are:

• 2% General Salary Increase and the final 1% Parity Payment (click here for Salary Schedule) are expected to be made on May 24, 2018 (Institutional Payroll  retroactive to March 29, 2018- the effective date for increases) and May 30, 2018 (Administration Payroll retroactive to April 5, 2018-the effective date for increases). Some may not be eligible for the “Parity” payment because they received it as part of another bargaining unit. Please consult the Budget Bulletin or call OMCE for further clarification.

• Grade 17 and below Longevity Payments will be made on the same dates listed above and will be in a separate check

• Performance Advances (Steps) — Statutory Salary-Graded and N/S Grade-Equated Positions. Advances will be paid automatically to all eligible M/C employees, in positions with statutorily established Salary Ranges or in Non-Statutory (NS) positions with Salary Ranges that were Equated-to-Grade on April 1, 2018. Employees must have served in an advance-eligible position for 13 payroll periods prior to April 1, 2018 and have a salary within the salary range for their position to receive this once annual  advance. Payments will be made on the same dates as above.

• Performance Advance Plans for N/S Positions NOT equated to a specific grade Agencies will be submitting these advance plans via NYSTEP between June 4-June20, 2018. It is anticipated that this will streamline the payment process.

Please contact OMCE if you have any questions regarding the Bulletin or your salary determination. The Comptroller’s office will be issuing companion Payroll Bulletins shortly.  

OMCE MEMBERS URGED TO FIGHT ATTACK ON RETIREE HEALTH BENEFITS
 

(Click Here) To send a letter to your Senator and Assemblymember

2018 OPEIU Scholarship Program Applications Are Now Available

Please go to the following site to obtain your OPEIU scholarship application(s) for the specific OPEIU scholarship program of your choice

http://www.opeiu.org/MemberResources/UnionBenefits/UnionScholarships.aspx

Please submit your application to OMCE by Friday March 23, 2018 (for membership verification and Officer Signature). OMCE will validate all submissions and forward them to OPEIU. Any applications sent directly to OPEIU may be returned since they will not be verified by OMCE.

Our Address:
NYS  OMCE
5 Pine West Plaza suite # 513
Albany, NY 12205

 IRMAA Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount Reimbursement Form Available

The Fight to Retain Reimbursement Levels Begins Anew

In his proposed 2018-2019 Executive Budget the Governor seeks to end reimbursement for the additional cost of Medicare paid by those deemed to be IRMAA (Income Related) Medicare participants. This is the 4th time the Executive has sought to end this reimbursement since we sustained the right to this reimbursement through the courts.  We are once again opposed ( click here to see OMCE Testimony ) to any reduction in reimbursement for IRMAA recipients as well as to the budget proposal to cap overall Medicare reimbursement at current payment levels ($134 per month for most Medicare eligible). The State has saved billions over the 40+ years since the creation of Medicare by having it serve as the primary health insurance for State retirees with the NYSHIP plan as the secondary coverage.

Regardless the Civil Service Department has mailed IRMAA forms to all previous filers and we have listed the links below for any seeking additional forms or who are now eligible to file for this additional reimbursement.  It is safe to assume that these will not be processed until the conclusion of budget negotiations and a new state budget has begun, hopefully with no changes to any Medicare reimbursements. As the Budget process moves forward we will have “electronic letters” available for you to send which will protest these proposals.

IRMAA FORMS:

Reimbursement Notice of Medicare Part B Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA)

IRMAA Reimbursement Request Application