Erie County Legislature Passes Resolution Supporting 207-c Eligibility for Probation Officers

ERIE COUNTY, NY (04/06/2026) (readMedia)-- On March 26, 2026, the Erie County Legislature unanimously passed a non-binding resolution supporting the extension of 207-c benefits to probation officers through collective bargaining, marking an important step forward in ongoing efforts to strengthen recruitment and retention in probation departments across New York State.

The resolution, developed in coordination with the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA), calls on New York State leaders to advance legislation that would allow counties the option to provide 207-c benefits to probation officers as a tool to support their workforce.

"This unanimous vote in Erie County sends a clear message that counties are looking for solutions to support their workforce, and expanding 207-c is one of them," said Steve Healy, CSEA Western Region President. "Our probation officers perform critical public safety work every day, and they deserve access to the same protections as other frontline workers. Now it's time for Albany to act."

CSEA worked closely with Erie County Public Safety Chair John Gilmour to develop the resolution language and build support among legislators. The resolution will be shared with the Erie County legislative delegation and the Governor's Office to demonstrate local support for action at the state level.

While the vote represents meaningful progress, it does not change current law or immediately expand 207-c eligibility. Any changes to 207-c benefits for probation officers must still be enacted by the New York State Legislature and signed into law.

"This is an important win, but it is one step in a larger effort," said Lori Cheatom, CSEA Erie County Probation Section President. "We will continue advocating in Albany to ensure probation officers have access to the protections they deserve, while giving counties the flexibility to negotiate these benefits."

CSEA encourages members, probation professionals, and community supporters to continue building momentum by supporting statewide efforts to advance this legislation. To learn more and take action, visit: https://www.change.org/p/probation-officer-coverage-under-general-municipal-law-207-c.

CSEA remains committed to working with state and local leaders to advance policies that support public employees and strengthen the services they provide to communities across New York.