UFT Challenges Mayor Over Paraprofessional Pay Raise

The United Federation of Teachers (UFT), representing New York City’s educators, opposes Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s attempt to block a proposed pay raise for education paraprofessionals. Despite previously endorsing Mamdani, the union is now at odds with him regarding the ‘RESPECT Check Act.’

Last month, the New York City Council passed the ‘RESPECT Check Act.’ This legislation proposes a bonus of up to $10,000 for education paraprofessionals. Initially, Mayor Mamdani supported a similar bill, but he now argues that it conflicts with New York state’s Taylor Law. This law protects public employees’ rights in compensation negotiations. The administration filed a lawsuit to prevent the law’s enactment on August 19.

The UFT promptly responded by filing a motion to intervene. The union expressed readiness to pursue the matter in court if necessary.

‘We knew this lawsuit was a possibility, and we were prepared,’ UFT President Michael Mulgrew stated in his address to Fox News Digital. ‘The RESPECT check law was carefully drafted to ensure compliance with the state’s Taylor Law.’

Mulgrew stressed the thorough vetting of the bill by the City Council, noting that its unanimous passage indicates its legality. He emphasized that the administration should uphold its commitments to educators.

Fox News Digital sought a response from Mamdani’s office, without success. In defense of the legislation, City Council Speaker Julie Menin and council member Carmen De La Rosa issued a statement supporting the Act. They criticized the low wages of paraprofessionals, some earning as low as $32,000, and cited rising costs due to staffing shortages as justification for the bill.

The Council remains firm in defending the law, highlighting its fiscal benefits and the necessity of attracting qualified staff.

Despite the lawsuit, discussions between Mamdani, Menin, and the UFT have been constructive, according to the Mayor. He reiterated the consensus on the vital role of paraprofessionals within the city and schools.

Lindsay Kornick, an associate editor at Fox News Digital, contributed to this report. Reach her with story tips at [email protected] or via Twitter: @lmkornick.