Dues hike approved

April 9, 2005

Delegates yesterday approved a proposed dues increase for the statewide union of $11 in each of the next two years, beginning Sept. 1. The increase is less than 4.5 percent per year.

NYSUT Secretary-Treasurer Ivan Tiger said the union's effectiveness and strength depend on active members, committed leaders and strong officers, but also on having the resources it needs to get results.

"A modest increase now allows NYSUT to maintain its fiscal strength, which is essential to gain access to decision-makers and influence public opinion," Tiger said.

Several delegates questioned the increase. Ron Cadieux of the Schenectady Federation of Teachers said his local has had to restrict the number of delegates it sends to the RA because of costs. John Mineka of PSC said his local has been two years without a contract and asked that the issue be put off to a later time.

Dan Kuffner of the Hyde Park TA spoke in support of the increase, as did NYSUT Vice President Richard Iannuzzi and UFT President Randi Weingarten.

"When we're in the battle we're in right now, we need NYSUT to be stronger than ever," Weingarten said. "Nobody likes a dues increase, but this one is appropriate and we need to support it."