Let's Clarify Some Things...

In New York State there has been a lot of talk concerning the Taylor Law and the Triborough Amendment, unfortunately these conversations do not often explain what these pieces of legislation mean.


What does the Taylor Law do?
The Taylor Law prohibits strikes by public employees.  A penalty calls for the loss of two days pay for every day on strike (two-for-one penalty).  The actual penalty is the loss of one day's pay; the other day of lost income is the result of no work being done on that day.

What is the Triborough Amendment?
It is an amendment to the Taylor Law which provides that all terms and conditions and provisions of an expired public employees contract remain in effect until a new contract is approved.  Since public employees may not strike, this establishes a fair balance in negotiations and encourages all parties to come to the table.

What are the mandatory subjects of negotiation?

• Teacher evaluation procedures
• Wages and hours, including length of work year
• Impact on unit members of reduction in work force
• Impact of modification on class size.

Tenure doesn't guarantee anyone a job. It guarantees due process:  Teachers are told why they are being terminated and given an opportunity to challenge that reason.