TAYLOR'S NECESSARY EVILS

The public needs protection. However, so do our first responders. Nearly 45 years later the shortcomings of the Taylor Law have become apparent. All essential public employees in New York State are covered by the Public Employees Fair Employment Act more commonly referred to as the Taylor Law. Named for labor researcher George W. Taylor, the state statute spells out the rights and limitations of public employees  and municipal unions. In layman's terms the law prevents public employees from striking, at the threat of hefty fines and jail time. In return for this major concession the governor appoints the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) to settle all contract disputes. However, like any legal dispute PERB takes nearly a minimum of 2 years to get involved. Most public employees, especially first responders agree that they should not have the right to strike. A current Nassau County Police Officer said "no matter what cops could never strike, it would be dereliction of duty." Retired New York City Detective Garrett Gorton added "I could never drive in my police car with blinders on." Similar feelings are shared among fire fighters. A retired Luietenant and former president of the Uniformed Firefighters Association  said "a vast majority of people who go in to emergency services go in to the field because of  a desire or calling to help others."