In most instances public safety and hospital security officers are the first line of defense. For anybody entering into a hospital or a healthcare facility, security concerns should be the least of their worries. Sadly this is not the case. Since the pandemic crime has risen considerably. Unfortunately for security officers at healthcare facilities they are left to deal with the issues that have plagued since the pandemic. The homelessness and emotionally disturbed that our security professionals have dealt with throughout the pandemic has trickled down to today's reality is still a major issue. Further, hospital security policies are becoming even more strict to mitigate these new security risks. Threats of violence, theft, and other crimes are real dangers in a hospital settings, and patients are at their most vulnerable state when they are unwell and admitted to a hospital. These issues have subjected officers to on the job injuries caused by violence and subsequently resulted in a major challenge fulfilling security officer positions in hospitals all over New York City. This is the reason why it is imperative we support our fellow officers not just during the pandemic but for the continued work they perform on a daily basis.

Local Government announced earlier this year that they will launch a Health and Mental Hygiene Worker Bonus. Enacted in the fiscal year 2023 New York State budget, the program includes a $1.3 billion allocated for the payment of recruitment and retention bonuses to certain healthcare and mental hygiene workers. Governor Hochul Stated, “Throughout the pandemic, including the early days when many were hunkered down at home, our healthcare workers and first responders have shown up day after day to keep New Yorkers healthy and save lives.” Unfortunately these government officials did not include security officers in this bill. We are appealing to the executives of Greater New York Hospital Association to include all our security professionals. We want to be classified as “healthcare support workers” in order to be included in the healthcare bonus program. We ask that Senator Charles Schumer assist us in this matter. Chuck has made job creation and economic development in New York State a top priority throughout his career and with his commitment in expanding healthcare and safety we are confident in his backing. Local One Security Officer’s Union would appreciate your support for this important cause. Let’s support ALL healthcare heroes!