CSEA Applauds Governor's Focus on Affordability

ALBANY, NY (01/13/2026) (readMedia)-- The Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) applauds Gov. Kathy Hochul's State of the State address and her administration's continued commitment to supporting the union workers who deliver services New Yorkers rely on every day.

"Governor Hochul has made clear that working people matter, and we appreciate her efforts to address affordability and protect vital public services," said CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan.

With affordability remaining a top concern for members, CSEA supports the governor's overarching goal to make New York a more affordable place to live and work. The growing strain caused by federal funding reductions continue to put pressure on essential public services and the public employees who provide them. Governor Hochul struck the right balance in responding to federal funding shortfalls while protecting the public services New Yorkers rely on.

"As always, the details will matter," said Sullivan. "We look forward to reviewing the proposed budget and working with the governor and the State Legislature to ensure these proposals truly deliver for New Yorkers."

While pension reform was not specifically mentioned, CSEA has been clear fixing Tier 6 remains the union's highest priority. The current tier continues to place an unfair burden on public employees, and CSEA will continue working to achieve parity with earlier tiers.