Liu Collective Bargaining Agreement

The Liu Collective Bargaining Agreement: Understanding its Impact on Labor Relations

The Liu Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) is a legally binding contract between the New York City government and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) sergeants, lieutenants, and captains. The agreement was signed by the parties involved in June 2021 after three years of negotiations and is set to expire in July 2022.

The Liu CBA is named after Judge Jack B. Weinstein, who acted as a mediator during the negotiations and passed away in 2021. The agreement includes significant changes to the terms and conditions of employment for the members of the NYPD covered by the CBA. These changes include modifications to disciplinary procedures, salary increases, and changes to benefits and working conditions.

One of the most significant changes in the Liu CBA is the modification of disciplinary procedures. The agreement removes the disciplinary power from the NYPD Commissioner and creates an independent arbitration process that will be overseen by a three-member panel. This panel will consist of one member appointed by the NYPD, one member appointed by the union, and a neutral member appointed by mutual agreement between the NYPD and the union.

Salary increases are also a crucial component of the Liu CBA. The agreement provides for significant salary increases for members of the NYPD covered by the contract. Members will receive a 2.25 percent salary increase retroactive to August 2020 and a further 2.25 percent increase in August 2021. The agreement also provides for a 1.5 percent salary increase in August 2022.

Changes to benefits and working conditions are also included in the Liu CBA. The agreement provides for increased health insurance contributions by members of the NYPD. The agreement also provides for increased paid parental leave for members of the NYPD who are new parents.

The Liu CBA has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters of the agreement believe that it will improve labor relations between the NYPD and its members. Supporters also argue that the changes to disciplinary procedures will ensure that members of the NYPD are treated fairly and equitably.

Critics of the Liu CBA argue that the agreement provides too much power to the union and limits the NYPD`s ability to discipline its members. Critics also argue that the salary increases included in the agreement are excessive and will result in increased costs for the city.

In conclusion, the Liu Collective Bargaining Agreement represents a significant change in labor relations between the NYPD and its members. The agreement includes modifications to disciplinary procedures, salary increases, and changes to benefits and working conditions. While the agreement has been met with mixed reactions, its impact on the NYPD and its members will be closely watched in the coming months.