State Safety Law Protects NYCHA Workers
Like firefighters and police officers, NYCHA employees are public servants who take their job responsibilities seriously. Property management staff work hard to keep NYCHA developments and facilities clean, safe, and well-maintained. And, like firefighters, police officers, and other public servants, NYCHA employees receive special protections under the law. Legislation passed in 2014 provides NYCHA staff with the same deterrents to assault that protect NYPD and MTA workers and State crossing guards: Any individual who physically assaults any NYCHA employee may be charged with violent felony and receive a sentence of up to one year in prison.
“All employees deserve to be safe and respected in the workplace,” Chair Shola Olatoye said when the bill was passed. “The Mayor, NYCHA leadership, and the Teamsters worked together to get the bill approved in Albany. It is an example of what can be achieved when we work as one for a common goal. I want to thank the Legislature and Governor for recognizing the important work that our frontline staff does every day.”
“NYCHA employees are on the frontline of efforts to protect and care for public housing residents and they deserve this increased protection,” said Teamsters Local 237 President Gregory Floyd, who advocated forcefully for the legislation. “The hardworking employees at NYCHA who make so many sacrifices for others can feel more secure working at housing developments throughout the City.”
