NYS Office of Employee Relations – Albany, NY

NYS Office of Employee Relations (OER)

The New York State Office of Employee Relations (OER), formerly known as the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations (GOER), acts as the Governor’s agent in all matters regarding the state’s unionized workforce. Headquartered in Agency Building 2 at the Empire State Plaza, this agency is the central hub for collective bargaining, contract administration, and the implementation of personnel policies for New York State employees.

Labor Relations and Contracts

OER negotiates and enforces the collective bargaining agreements with the state’s public employee unions, including CSEA, PEF, and UUP. The office provides guidance to state agencies on contract interpretation, discipline, and grievance resolution. 🤝 Collaboration: The agency oversees joint labor-management committees that fund training, safety initiatives, and employee assistance programs.

Employee Services and Training

Beyond negotiations, OER manages the Statewide Learning Management System (SLMS) and offers professional development through the Empire Knowledge Bank. They oversee the Anti-Discrimination Investigations Division (ADID), ensuring a workplace free from harassment and bias. The office also coordinates Work-Life Services, such as the pre-tax flex spending account (FSA) program and the network of state-sponsored child care centers.

• Dispute Resolution: Handling arbitration and disciplinary appeals.
• Training: Mandated training on ethics, sexual harassment prevention, and supervision.
• Diversity Management: Promoting equal opportunity and inclusive workplace practices.