Statement of New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento on Passage of Vital Tier 6 Pension Reforms

Albany, NY - The Union Movement’s fight to fix Tier 6 has always been about dignity, self-respect, and financial independence in retirement. Whether it's a reduction in pension contribution rates, lifting the cap on pensionable overtime, or reducing the retirement age, these changes are a clear victory for public sector workers across this state.

I am extremely proud of the unity and solidarity displayed by all our affiliated unions in the public and private sectors, as well as in the building trades unions, throughout this campaign.

We were able to build upon previous pension improvements over the past five years, including improvements to vesting and final average salary.

This demonstrates what the Union Movement can achieve when we stand together and raise our voices to improve the quality of life for all working people.

I want to thank Governor Hochul and acknowledge the collaborative efforts of Senate Majority Leader Andrew Stewart-Cousins, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, and the Democratic Majorities in both houses of the legislature for recognizing the importance of these changes, which will address the recruitment and retention challenges of public employees and thereby improve the services we all rely on.