Delegates Friday acted on a number of resolutions, directing NYSUT to improve conditions for part-time workers and increase state support for the higher-education system, which for years has been hamstrung by fiscal constraints and a low number of full-time faculty.

Delegates passed one measure calling on NYSUT to pursue initiatives that would help School-Related Professionals secure a living wage and access to affordable health care.

Resolutions also were passed asking NYSUT to continue monitoring the work of the state Commission on Higher Education, which was appointed by former Gov. Eliot Spitzer last year and is now reviewing the needs of New York's higher-education system. Another resolution puts NYSUT on record in calling for the immediate reinstatement of the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's faculty Senate.

Delegates also charged the union with working to ensure that all part-time, contingent and graduate employees in higher education statewide receive employer-provided health insurance.

NYSUT was directed to examine its dues structure to ensure a fair and equitable distribution among members.

Other resolutions asked the union to: study inflation-protection equity for retirees in Optional Retirement Programs and develop appropriate legislation; make bus drivers a priority for improved ERS pensions; and include in its legislative package a bill requiring the availability of a third-party notification system for health-insurance contributions by retirees.