ALBANY- The New York State and the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) had reached a tentative five-year contract agreement covering more than 55,000 state workers, according to a news release from the office of Governor Kathy Hochul.

The proposed contract, which would run through April 1, 2031, still must be ratified by union members before it takes effect.  CSEA represents state employees in four bargaining units and includes workers in a wide range of positions across state government.

Under the agreement, employees would receive salary increases in each year of the contract.  The deal also includes paid prenatal leave, increases in location pay and changes to health insurance benefits aimed at reducing out-of-pocket costs for workers by eliminating certain co-pays, and reducing reliance on out-of-network providers.

Hochul described the agreement as beneficial for both employees and the state.

“This agreement is a fair deal for both CSEA members and the State of New York,” Hochul said in a statement.  “Here in New York State, we value public servants and their dedication in making the Empire State a better place to live for all New Yorkers.”

CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan said the tentative agreement recognizes the contributions of union members while addressing financial pressures facing workers.

“We applaud Governor Hochul’s recognition of the hard work CSEA members provide to the state every day through this fair contract,” Sullivan said.  “This agreement delivers meaningful wage increases and helps address affordability challenges working people are facing.”

If approved by union members, the contract would provide a new framework for wages and benefits for thousands of state employees through 2031. Details of the wage increases were not immediately released.