For another year, Gov. Paterson has signed a NYSUT-backed bill that will continue health insurance coverage protections for many education retirees.

The law, which was set to expire May 15, requires that any changes to retiree health insurance be subject to collective bargaining.

NYSUT Executive Vice President Alan Lubin said the extension "provides the legal requirement that educational employers continue their longstanding commitment to providing health insurance coverage to retirees."

The law extends until May 15, 2010, a measure that prohibits educational employers from diminishing health insurance benefits or contributions for retirees and their dependents, unless there is a corresponding reduction in benefits for active employees.

"It's a pretty significant victory," Lubin said. The statewide union has secured an annual extension of the law since its original enactment in 1994.

Lubin said NYSUT will continue to urge the Legislature and governor to make these protections permanent.

The moratorium bill was sponsored by Sen. Diane Savino, D-Staten Island, and Assemblywoman Helene Weinstein, D-Brooklyn.