The United Federation of Teachers (UFT) is taking a stand against Mayor Zohran Mamdani's efforts to block a city-backed pay raise for education paraprofessionals. The UFT, which had previously endorsed Mamdani, is fighting the lawsuit filed by the mayor's administration to stop the "RESPECT Check Act" from being enacted.
The act, which was unanimously passed by the New York City Council last month, would offer up to a $10,000 bonus for education paraprofessionals. Mamdani's administration argues that the law violates the Taylor Law, which protects public employees' rights to negotiate issues like compensation. The UFT, however, claims that the law was carefully drafted to comply with the Taylor Law and that the City Council would not have introduced it if it were illegal.
The UFT has filed a motion to intervene in the lawsuit, preparing to take the issue to court if Mamdani continues to fight the measure. UFT President Michael Mulgrew stated that the union was prepared for this possibility and that the RESPECT check law is an opportunity for Mamdani to create a new, fairer system for paraprofessionals.
Mamdani's office was reached for comment, but a response was not immediately received. The city council pointed to a joint statement made by City Council Speaker Julie Menin and council member Carmen De La Rosa, stating that the council will vigorously defend the law. The statement noted that the law is not only the right thing to do but also fiscally responsible, helping to address staffing shortages and the city's $1.5 billion in Carter case costs.
Mamdani had previously stated that discussions with Menin and the UFT have been productive, and that he does not oppose a pay raise for paraprofessionals. However, the lawsuit filed by his administration has raised concerns about his commitment to supporting the RESPECT Check Act.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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