Members press legislative agenda at lawmakers confab By DENYCE DUNCAN LACY Over a hundred of PEF activists from around the state traveled to Albany in mid-February to help the union make its case against proposed state budget cuts. They did so by taking part in the annual conference of the New York State Black and Puerto Rican Legislators Association, a weekend of workshops, meetings and numerous opportunities to lobby lawmakers on PEF’s key concerns. Launching PEF’s agenda “This event is really the annual public kick-off of our coordinated efforts to advance our top legislative and budget priorities,” said PEF Vice President Ken Brynien, who organized the union’s participation. “This year, we are focusing on restoring state budget cuts proposed for the Office of Mental Health and other agencies, gaining approval of the 55/25 retirement bill and bills to improve working conditions for nurses, and fighting privatization in the state Education Department.” PEF activists carried those messages to the lawmakers attending the conference as they attended workshops and receptions. They also made the public aware of the union’s issues on Saturday, February 16, by staffing the PEF information booth on the concourse of the Empire State Plaza and distributing fact sheets and other materials to passersby. And PEF sponsored a reception for state lawmakers on Saturday evening that drew numerous elected officials and candidates for statewide office. Long Island leader lauded The weekend wrapped up with a special accolade for PEF Region 12 Coordinator Ruth Gaines. During the legislators’ Gala Dinner on Sunday, the longtime Long Island leader received the association’s Distinguished Service Award for “exemplary leadership in serving your community.” Gaines said the working weekend was valuable. “I encourage working men and women to start planning now to attend the 2003 conference. This conference gives us the opportunity to hear what our elected officials have to say, to get information regarding services in New York and to network with other unions,” Gaines said.

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