New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli thanked RA delegates for the union's successful advocacy on the state budget this year.
Their efforts, he said, were crucial to winning an increase in state aid to schools, funding for full-day prekindergarten and the Legislature's affirmation of the right of the state comptroller to audit charter schools.
"That was an important victory for taxpayers," DiNapoli said of the authorization to ensure financial oversight of charter schools.
He stressed the importance of defined benefit pension plans and providing a secure retirement for seniors.
He reminded the crowd that the state has $12 billion in unclaimed funds. DiNapoli urged NYSUT members to check with the state to see whether they have unclaimed funds under their name as individuals, or for organizations.
To search under your name, visit www.osc.state.ny.us.
For two organizations at least, the state comptroller did a search of his own. He presented to NYSUT President Dick Iannuzzi a large, blown-up copy of a check for $1,486.55 owed to NYSUT.
He also gave a check for $2,445.35 owed to the United Federation of Teachers to UFT President Michael Mulgrew.