Advocacy

Advocacy in Action

Support of Amendments to Tier VI

SAANYS members strongly support necessary changes to Tier VI of the NYS Retirement System. Tier VI has been a barrier to attracting new educators to the field, and is not equitable when compared to other NYS retirement tiers. Advocating for this high-priority issue on behalf of our members is very important. SAANYS is calling for eligible members to retire with full benefits at age 55, with 30 years of service. The following are just some examples of how SAANYS has been active in supporting needed amendments to Tier VI.

  • Held high-level Senate and Assembly leadership meetings during the Fall of 2025 and on March 4th 
  • The SAANYS Government Relations Committee (GRC) has met with NYSTRS leaders to discuss needed changes. 
  • The GRC held a round of legislative meetings on March 4th with a strong emphasis on the state budget and Tier VI. 
  • Participated in the March 8th NYSUT Tier VI Rally with over 15,000 other union members seeking Tier VI relief. 
  • Participated in a recent panel featuring Tom DiNapoli that focused on his perspectives and challenges to changing Tier VI

SAANYS will continue to actively advocate and lobby for changes to Tier VI and listen to membership feedback.