{"id":2777,"date":"2024-12-19T15:29:49","date_gmt":"2024-12-19T20:29:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/council.nyc.gov\/press\/?p=2777"},"modified":"2024-12-19T15:29:49","modified_gmt":"2024-12-19T20:29:49","slug":"new-york-city-council-votes-to-increase-support-for-new-york-citys-workforce","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/council.nyc.gov\/press\/2024\/12\/19\/2777\/","title":{"rendered":"New York City Council Votes to Increase Support for New York City\u2019s Workforce"},"content":{"rendered":"

Council also passed legislation to revise security program for non-public schools, increase frequency of inflationary adjustments for campaign financing, and co-name over 100 streets and public spaces<\/em><\/p>\n

City Hall, NY \u2013 <\/strong>Today, the New York City Council voted to add support for New York City\u2019s workforce, including improving the process for municipal employees to maintain their health insurance and benefits coverage when transferring from one agency to another. Some municipal workers have encountered problems with the administration of their benefits as they transition into new roles. Such interruptions of benefits can have consequences on city workers\u2019 economic and physical health. It can also deter people from seeking new opportunities in city government that require moving to different agencies and transitioning from one civil service track to another. This bill seeks to prevent any lapse in city employees\u2019 benefit coverage. <\/p>\n

The Council also passed legislation to revise the City\u2019s security reimbursement program for non-public schools, increase the frequency of inflationary adjustments for the campaign finance program, strengthen notifications of street changes, and co-name over 100 streets and public spaces.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur nearly 300,000-strong municipal workforce is essential to the functioning of our city, and preventing interruption of their employment benefits is critical to strengthening it,\u201d said Speaker Adrienne Adams. \u201cThe Council is proud to support our city’s workers by ensuring that there is no lapse in their benefits and health insurance coverage when they transfer agencies.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adding Supports for New York City\u2019s Workforce<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

Introduction 265-A<\/strong><\/a>, sponsored by Council Member Rita Joseph<\/strong>, would require City agencies to make their best possible efforts to expedite administrative processes related to providing continuing city-administered health insurance coverage when an employee transfers from one agency to another. The bill would also require agencies to provide detailed information regarding accessing city-administered benefits when an employee begins work.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs someone deeply committed to ensuring fairness and efficiency in our city\u2019s workforce, Int. 265 is a crucial step toward protecting the health and well-being of our public servants by streamlining access to city-administered health insurance when employees transfer between agencies,\u201d said Council Member Rita Joseph.<\/strong> \u201cClear communication and expedited processes are not just bureaucratic improvements; they are lifelines for workers and their families. By making sure employees have the information and support they need to maintain their health coverage without interruption, we are demonstrating that New York City values the people who keep our city running.\u201d<\/p>\n

Resolution 522<\/strong><\/a>, sponsored by Council Member Julie Menin<\/strong>, would call on the New York State Legislature to pass and the Governor to sign A.10225\/S.9376, also known as The Good Jobs Guarantee Act, which would establish certain workforce training programs and increase employment opportunities for New Yorkers.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is crucial now more than ever to support workforce development programs that help bridge the income and professional gap for everyday New Yorkers,\u201d said Council Member Julie Menin<\/strong>. \u201cThese vital programs will help level the playing field in the tech industry, ensuring that talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds receive the growth opportunities and talent recognition they deserve. I am grateful to Speaker Adrienne Adams for advancing this resolution that calls on New York State to pass the Good Jobs Guarantee Act.\u201d<\/p>\n

Supporting Workforce Development for Immigrant New Yorkers<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

Resolution 468<\/strong><\/a>, sponsored by Council Member Crystal Hudson<\/strong>, would call on the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, S.5964\/A.8263, also known as the Empire State Licensing Act, which provides all New Yorkers with access to professional, occupational, commercial, or business licenses, permits, certificates, or related registrations regardless of an applicant’s citizenship or immigration status, or lack thereof.<\/p>\n

\u201cIn light of the current political climate, many New Yorkers fear what the new year will bring for themselves and their families. Immigrants are not just part of the fabric of this city\u2014they are the needle, the thread, and the weaver. New York must do everything in its power to protect all its residents,\u201d said Council Member Crystal Hudson<\/strong>. \u201cResolution 0468-2024 urges the New York State Legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, the Empire State Licensing Act. This legislation ensures that all New Yorkers, regardless of their citizenship or immigration status, have access to professional, occupational, commercial, and business licenses, permits, certificates, and related registrations. By passing this resolution, we will send a clear message that New York is a sanctuary of opportunity and inclusivity, where everyone can contribute to the prosperity and strength of our city.\u201d<\/p>\n

Resolution 521<\/strong><\/a>, sponsored by Majority Leader Amanda Far\u00edas<\/strong>, would call on the United States Department of Labor to expand the number of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) authorized outreach trainers in New York City’s ten designated languages.<\/p>\n

Resolution 576<\/strong><\/a>, sponsored by Majority Leader Amanda Far\u00edas<\/strong>, would call on the New York State Legislature to introduce and pass, and the Governor to sign, legislation amending the tax law to authorize the City of New York to offer a tax credit for businesses to incentivize the creation of workforce development and training programs for newly arrived immigrants.<\/p>\n

\u201cNew York City’s economy has been built on the backs of immigrants, and it’s time that we remove the systemic barriers preventing newly arrived immigrants from fully contributing to and benefiting from our growing economy,\u201d said Majority Leader Amanda Far\u00edas.<\/strong> \u201cWhether it\u2019s expanding OSHA training to more languages or incentivizing businesses to invest in workforce development for immigrants, these resolutions help build the foundation for a workforce that reflects the diversity and resilience of our city. With an aging workforce in sectors like construction and industry, it\u2019s essential that we take action now to support immigrant workers, so they can help continue to shape the future of our city.\u201d<\/p>\n

Enhancing Security Program for Non-Public Schools<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

Introduction 532-A<\/strong><\/a>, sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan<\/strong>, would expand a program established by Local Law 2 of 2016,<\/strong> <\/strong>whereby non-public schools are eligible to seek reimbursement from the City for costs related to employing security guards. This bill would lower the threshold of eligibility to include schools with 150 or more students from the current 300-student level, expand eligibility to certain charter schools that are not co-located in an existing public-school building, and increase the annual reimbursement cap.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe need our students and teachers to always be protected in a safe learning environment. That’s non-negotiable. It doesn’t matter what type of school their kids attend, public or private, every New York City parent deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing their children are safe while in school,\u201d said Council Member Justin Brannan<\/strong>. \u201cThe overwhelming majority of smaller, non-public schools simply can\u2019t afford security guards. Now they won’t have to worry. I\u2019m grateful for the families, school communities, and all the stakeholders who got us here, and to Speaker Adams and all my colleagues for joining me on this issue and getting it done. The existing NPS program has worked effectively, and the smallest non-public schools \u2013 which often face greater financial limitations than their larger counterparts \u2013 have been advocating for inclusion in the program for years.\u201d<\/p>\n

Increasing Frequency of Campaign Finance Recalculations for Inflation<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

Introduction 1111-A<\/strong><\/a>, sponsored by Council Member Lynn Schulman<\/strong>, would change the frequency with which the Campaign Finance Board recalculates contribution and expenditure limits to account for changes in the consumer price index. The Board would recalculate contribution and expenditure limits once every local general election instead of every four years to account for two-year terms that occur every 20 years.<\/p>\n

\u201cIntro 1111-2024 is a common sense measure that ensures our campaign finance system remains fair, transparent, and reflective of the anomaly that takes place every 20 years in City Council races, because of the U.S. Census,\u201d said Council Member Lynn Schulman.<\/strong> \u201cBy recalculating expenditure limits before every local general election, instead of every four years, we are providing City Council candidates who must run every two years for their first term during certain census cycles, with a level playing field to engage with voters. This reform strengthens our democracy and affirms our commitment to accountability and equity in elections. I\u2019m proud to be the prime sponsor of this legislation and grateful for the support of my colleagues in advancing this important change.\u201d <\/p>\n

Improving Notifications for Street Infrastructure Changes<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

Introduction 103-A<\/strong><\/a>, <\/strong>sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola, <\/strong>would require the Department of Transportation to notify affected Council Members 10 days prior to the removal of parking spaces that will be repurposed for a street level bicycle corral requested by a local business, a car share program, or a bike share program. Previously, neighborhoods would experience a change in parking space availability and infrastructure without any prior notification. This bill will allow the local Council Member and community to plan accordingly ahead of any such changes.<\/p>\n

Introduction 104-A<\/strong><\/a>, <\/strong>sponsored by Council Member Joann Ariola,<\/strong> would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to consult with the Fire Department (FDNY) before approving Open Street applications and certain bicycle lane projects, which is already required for major transportation projects. FDNY would be required to confer with local affected firehouses prior to approval of these applications and to share that information with DOT. Previously, certain Open Streets or construction of bike lanes could impede local emergency responders. This bill will provide greater transparency and ensure DOT has information from affected firehouses when implementing these projects.<\/p>\n

\u201cIntro 103 and 104 are essential for improving public safety and quality of life in New York City,\u201d said Council Member Joann Ariola<\/strong>. \u201cIntro 104 addresses increasing FDNY and EMS response times by giving the FDNY input on the placement of open streets and bike lanes, ensuring emergency vehicles can navigate this city\u2019s roadways without delay. Intro 103 will require the DOT to notify the NYC Council representative in any area when there will be a loss of parking. This protects residents’ quality of life by preventing the sudden loss of parking, so that New Yorkers won\u2019t wake up in the morning and suddenly find that their parking spots have been taken away by giving Councilmembers the ability to provide prior notification before any such changes. Together, these bills will create a safer, more transparent, and more livable city for all.\u201d<\/p>\n

Renaming of 109 Thoroughfares and Public Places<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

Introduction 1153<\/strong><\/a>, sponsored by Council Member Shekar Krishnan<\/strong>, would co-name 109 thoroughfares and public places, based on requests of Council Members whose district includes the location.<\/p>\n

Calling on Congress to Renew Farm Bill with Increased Food Aid and Establish National Infrastructure Bank<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

Resolution 227<\/strong><\/a>, sponsored by Council Member Gale Brewer<\/strong>, would call on Congress to pass, and the President to sign, a renewed Farm Bill that increases funding for life-saving food aid.<\/p>\n

\u201cHunger in New York City is soaring,\u201d said Council Member Gale A. Brewer<\/strong>. \u201cI see food banks and soup kitchens in Manhattan experiencing double digit increases in demand. Any cuts to the life-saving food aid will threaten the health of the city\u2019s most vulnerable residents. We need more government investment in food security at all levels.\u201d<\/p>\n

Resolution 11<\/strong><\/a>, <\/strong>sponsored by Council Member Crystal Hudson<\/strong>, wouldcall on the United States Congress to pass, and the President to sign, the National Infrastructure Bank Act of 2023, which would establish a National Infrastructure Bank to facilitate efficient, long-term financing of infrastructure projects, business and economic growth, and new job creation.<\/p>\n

\u201cI am proud that we are passing Resolution 0011-2024, which calls on the United States Congress to pass and the President to sign H.R. 4052, the National Infrastructure Bank Act of 2023,\u201d said Council Member Crystal Hudson.<\/strong> \u201cOver the years, our country\u2019s infrastructure has deteriorated, as it has been sidelined in favor of other legislative priorities. The American Society of Civil Engineers has graded our infrastructure as a C-, noting that there is a water main break every two minutes and that 43 percent of our public roadways are in poor condition. By passing this bill, we will finally create a mechanism to fully finance vital upgrades like new public housing, roads, bridges, and railways that will only strengthen our economy. It’s time we invest in the revitalization this country so desperately needs.\u201d<\/p>\n

Land Use<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

Kingsbridge Armory ESDC Grant<\/strong> \u2013 The New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) requests the Council\u2019s support for an application to the \u201cRestore NY Communities\u201d program, administered by the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC), for up to $2 million in funding towards the future Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment project and the renovation and adaptive reuse of this landmark building in Council Member Sanchez\u2019s district.<\/p>\n

Finance<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n

Pre-considered Resolution<\/strong><\/a> would appropriate new City revenues in Fiscal Year 2025 and implement revenue budget changes reflected in the City\u2019s November Financial Plan.<\/p>\n

Introduction 1090-A<\/strong><\/a>, <\/strong>sponsored by Council Member Justin Brannan, <\/strong>would authorize nine existing business improvement districts throughout the city to increase the amount they can expend annually.<\/p>\n

Introduction 1098<\/strong><\/a>,<\/strong> sponsored by Council Member Keith Powers<\/strong>, would authorize an increase in the amount the Madison Avenue business improvement district can expend annually.<\/p>\n

Preconsidered Resolution<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>would approve a 40-year full exemption from real property taxes for 45th Street Partners, a four-building portfolio with 80 residential units located in Council Member Erik Bottcher\u2019s district.<\/p>\n

Preconsidered Resolution<\/strong><\/a> would approve a 40-year full exemption from real property taxes for The Perennial, which will consist of the adaptive reuse of a former hospital building, resulting in a 145-unit, affordable senior building in Council Member Lynn Schulman\u2019s district.<\/p>\n

Preconsidered Resolution<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>would approve a 40-year partial exemption from real property taxes for 3044 Albany Crescent, a five-story building with 36 rent stabilized residential units, located in Council Member Pierina Sanchez\u2019 district.<\/p>\n

Preconsidered Resolution<\/strong><\/a> would approve a 40-year full exemption from real property taxes for 73 Loisaida, a Housing Development Fund Corporation (HDFC) that comprises a multi-family building in Council Member Carlina Rivera\u2019s district.<\/p>\n

Preconsidered Resolution<\/strong><\/a> would approve a 40-year partial exemption from real property taxes for Crotona VII, a project that consists of one 55-unit building in Council Member Rafael Salamanca\u2019s district.<\/p>\n

###<\/p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Council also passed legislation to revise security program for non-public schools, increase frequency of inflationary adjustments for campaign financing, and co-name over 100 streets and public spaces<\/em><\/p>\n

City Hall, NY \u2013 <\/strong>Today, the New York City Council voted to add support for New York City\u2019s workforce, including improving the process for municipal employees to maintain their health insurance and benefits coverage when transferring from one agency to another.<\/p>\n

…<\/p>\n

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