"Legislative reception." Feb. 16, 2006. New York Teacher.

Legislative reception
Unionists on a budget brigade

From left, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver catches up with NYSUT's Dick Iannuzzi and Ivan Tiger during the United Federation of Teachers' annual breakfast with legislators.

Feb. 16, 2006

The atmosphere may have appeared relaxed, but union leaders and political activists were all business at New York State United Teachers' annual legislative reception. Unionists let their lawmakers in the state Senate and Assembly know they have their work cut out for them in securing much-needed education and health care funds in upcoming budget negotiations.

Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno, Sen. Eric Schneiderman, D-Bronx, and NYSUT Vice President Maria Neira.

"We have worked well together with the Legislature in the past," NYSUT Executive Vice President Alan Lubin said. "Given the challenges we face, it's important now, more than ever, for us to continue to work together."

The reception kicked off what NYSUT political action coordinators know will be a tough legislative session. Upcoming union lobby days include: Feb. 27-28 Higher education; March 7 BOCES; March 14 United Federation of Teachers; March 20-21 and May 22-23 Committee of 100; April 18 New York State Psychological Association; and May 1-2 Health Care Professionals.