PEF President Brynien's Message

By KENNETH BRYNIEN
The governor submitted his budget a month early with the hope the additional time would allow dialogue on the proposals and lead to early passage.

Since then, we have laid out the facts that this budget, as proposed, would sap much of the benefit of the federal stimulus package by reducing services just when they are needed most and eliminate nearly $2 billion in economic activity just in the cuts and concessions he is seeking from the state work force.

We’ve held a rally, attended town hall meetings, lobbied in Albany, lobbied locally, placed dozens of print and Web ads, run television ads nearly 1,200 times and we continue to build a grassroots effort to fight this budget and to let the governor and our legislators know there is a better way.

Our advocacy for government efficiency, through measures such as eliminating wasteful contracting out and excessive overtime, will continue, as will our call for fairness by making sure the burden of this crisis is carried by those most able to afford it.

However, as much as PEF can advocate for you, our effectiveness increases when our members reinforce the message. I urge you to act now. Send letters to your legislators and the governor, let them know how you feel about the proposed Executive Budget. It only takes a few mouse clicks on the PEF Web site or, better yet, mail a letter.

There is no certainty the budget will pass early, but we do know that with your help, the governor and Legislature will hear our message and know that any actions they take to cut the services we provide will be at their own peril.