A union-backed law that provides up to four hours of paid leave for annual breast cancer and prostate screenings has been expanded to include community colleges, BOCES, vocational schools, public benefit corporations and employees in the New York State and Local Employees' Retirement system.

The law, which amends legislation passed last year, also clarifies that the leave is a paid one.

The move comes after two recent court decisions confirmed it was wrong for employers to force workers to use their sick or personal leave to undergo screenings.

NYSUT won the restoration of a Wappingers teacher's sick leave, as well as a grievance settlement for three Fulton-Montgomery Community College members.

In his memo approving the amendments, Gov. David Paterson noted the preventive benefits of screenings would ultimately outweigh the costs. Proponents stressed the role that such leave can play in early detection of illness; permitting employees to take time off without financial consequences will undoubtedly encourage more employees to undergo appropropriate tests.

The American Cancer Society recommendeds yearly mammograms for women starting at age 40. Women at higher-than-average risk should talk with their health providers about the need for earlier screenings.

ACS recommends prostate screening for men starting at age 50. Men at higher risk should begin screenings as early as 40 years of age, according to ACS. 

For details, check NYSUT's Web site, www.nysut.org, under Legislative Issues, or contact your local union president.