Local EMS union encourages workers to request reassignment out of congestion relief zone
Local Union 2507 sent a notice to their members that included a reassignment request form.
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The local union that represents the city's EMS and paramedics is now encouraging their members assigned to stations in the congestion relief zone to request reassignments.
Local Union 2507 sent a notice to their members that included a reassignment request form.
The union represents 4,100 emergency medical technicians and paramedics that travel from all parts of the city — and even outside of the state, to be on the city's front lines.
Under congestion pricing, those who live outside of 60th Street in Manhattan will have to pay a toll beginning at $9 for cars during peak periods in order to get to stations located in downtown Manhattan.
Union president Oren Barzilay said Friday while they fought for exemptions and discounts at public hearings, ultimately, they were not included in the groups eligible.
"My men and woman, they live in their cars, they live in their families or friends' houses. They sleep on couches, they sleep at stations because they can't afford to go back and forth every day. This will more than likely be the nail in the coffin, they will likely resign, or demand to be transferred to another station," Barzilay said.
Barzilay did not have an exact number, but said some workers have already submitted reassignment forms and they expect the number to increase once the toll goes into effect on Jan. 5.
“Mark my words, it will likely have a large, negative impact on public safety that will soon enough lead to a rush by Albany and City Hall’s countless and well-paid government funded spin doctors to point the blame and fingers at each other, as they always do. Actions speak louder than words and this tax is a lose-lose for the FDNY EMS and public safety,” Barzilay added.
