NY Public Employees Push Pension Reforms

Potential cost of changes to state's public pension program raises concerns

Mar. 16, 2026 at 7:19am

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Some lawmakers in Albany are proposing changes to New York's public pension program, citing concerns about affordability and the need to attract more people to the state. Residents Kate Mills and her husband Michael Moore of Nyack discuss the challenges of the cost of living in New York.

Why it matters

Pension reforms could have significant financial implications for the state and its public employees. Any changes to the pension system would need to balance the needs of the state's budget and workforce.

The details

The proposed pension reforms aim to address concerns about the affordability of the current system and the state's ability to attract new residents. However, the potential cost of these changes is a major point of discussion.

  • The pension reform discussions are taking place in Albany in 2026.

The players

Kate Mills

A resident of Nyack, New York who has discussed the affordability of living in the state.

Michael Moore

Kate Mills' husband, a Nyack resident who has also discussed the cost of living in New York.

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What they’re saying

“I'm fighting for a stronger pension system because the more we attract people, we'll be stronger overall.”

— Kate Mills

What’s next

Lawmakers in Albany will continue to debate the proposed pension reforms and their potential impact on the state's budget and workforce.

The takeaway

Reforming New York's public pension system is a complex issue that requires balancing the state's financial needs with the needs of its public employees. Any changes will need to be carefully considered to ensure they do not negatively impact the state's ability to attract and retain a skilled workforce.