About the Office of Employee Relations

Mission

To advance the performance of state government through collaborative labor relations, workforce training, education, and benefits.

As the Governor's representative in employee relations matters for the Executive Branch of State government, the Office of Employee Relations (OER):

  • Negotiates, implements, and administers collective bargaining agreements
  • Provides advice and technical assistance to managers, supervisors, and human resource professionals related to personnel rules, regulations, policies, and contract administration issues
  • Ensures compensation and benefit programs for State employees are cost-effective
  • Offers training and development programs designed to increase the competency of the State workforce
  • Plans for a changing workplace in partnership with the unions and the Department of Civil Service
  • Promotes and maintains a safe and healthy workforce

Director
Michael Volforte

In February 2017, Michael Volforte became the Director of the New York State Office of Employee Relations.
Executive Team
Michael Volforte headshot

The Taylor Law and Negotiations 101

The Taylor Law

The Taylor Law is a labor relations statute covering most public employees in New York State — whether employed by the State, or by counties, cities, towns, villages, school districts, public authorities or certain special service districts.

Learn More About the Taylor Law
Negotiations 101

How the negotiation process works.

Learn More About Negotiations

Quarterly Reports

Contact Us

Contact Information for the Office of Employee Relations (OER).