December Topics:

"Offshore Outsourcing of Middle Class Jobs" - see Bill Moyer’s NOW program dealing with this important issue.

Trail of Misery - It can be hard to walk from the Water Street lots on wintry days. Hear what we’re trying to do.

Information Security Policy - inform yourself first.

Traveler’s info - its all new, what do you know?

Questions and Answers - Let us know your concerns.

Have a safe , happy holiday season

For more information go to !

See you at the February 6th Membership Meeting!

Since the early retirement incentive sent over 100 PEF members out of the State workforce, DEC employees have been asked to do more and higher levels of work on a regular basis. In some cases, PEF/encon has taken action by filing out of title grievances under article 17 of our contract for individuals that have been assigned work above their grade. Three grievances have been upheld and the individuals involved paid back pay at the higher rate because the Department of Civil Service agreed that they had been assigned work that was above their grade level. Let a steward know if you think that you have been assigned out of title work.

All last winter PEF/encon struggled to bring the deplorable conditions on the walkway from the northern most part of the Water Street Parking Lot to the Water Street Walkway to the attention of DEC management. Many of you have seen the "Albany’s Winter Wonderland" photos on of the conditions. The Trail of Misery is back, and we’ll continue to fight to get it cleaned of snow as quickly as all other necessary routes to 625 Broadway.

7 TRAIL OF MISERY December 2003

Click Here for More Info

If you want to report a sidewalk that needs snow clearance please call 427-7480 for Albany Streets & Sewers, or 434-2489 for their complaint line.

Most of us have been told about the new iExpense program for paying travel vouchers. Unfortunately as of this writing we have heard about many problems, lack of directions and information, and possible conflicts with the way things have traditionally been done at DEC. We’ll be tracking the continued implementation of this system for possible contract grievances and improper practice ramifications.

DEC Management has rolled out this policy and accompanied it with an internet filter and an email reader. This has far reaching implications for our privacy at work, and in some cases for the way members do their work. Big brother is watching, and we need to be vigilant. If you become aware of problems, please let a steward know.

See you at the February 6th Membership Meeting!