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New York state this week announced the ratification of a five-year labor agreement with the United University Professions (UUP), which includes approximately 42,000 SUNY faculty and professional employees. The agreement, which runs until July 1, 2031, was approved by 98% of UUP members who cast ballots.
As part of the deal, raises in each of the five years include: 4.5%, 4%, 3.5%, 3%, and 3%. The contract also includes boosts to location pay and several other unit-specific payments
"This agreement invests in the hard-working members of the United University Professions, recognizing their contributions to SUNY while also underscoring my administration's support for New York's public university system and its talented workforce," Gov. Kathy Hochul said. "I thank UUP's dedicated members for ensuring that students at our state universities continue to grow and thrive by preparing them for the challenges ahead through a world-class education and the support they need, which in turn is a worthy investment in New York State's future."
While touting the pact, no state official has indicated how struggling SUNY institutions are supposed to pay for these generous increases. In Western New York, Fredonia and Buffalo State have been battling decreased enrollments that have added to a deficit that is in the millions of dollars. Now, the state is burdening these institutions with contracts that will add to the fiscal troubles.
This is not a reflection of the job of teaching that is done on area campuses. It is more a reality that the state is again celebrating added costs while asking struggling entities to pick up the tab.