Over the past several months, your union has been fighting on multiple fronts—and together, we have achieved meaningful progress.

In Albany, we secured significant legislative victories for our members and retirees. After years of advocacy, the New York State Senate and Assembly passed legislation to fix Tier 2A, addressing a longstanding inequity that has driven experienced Detectives from the job and contributed to the staffing crisis facing our profession. The Legislature also passed A11213/S10085, extending the 25-year presumptive eligibility period for World Trade Center-related illnesses and injuries. This legislation recognizes a simple truth: for many first responders, the sacrifices of September 11th did not end when the dust settled. The effects of service at the World Trade Center site continue decades later, and those who answered the call deserve the protections they have earned.

While these victories are worth celebrating, our work is not done. The DEA will continue fighting tirelessly to ensure Governor Hochul signs these critical bills into law. Our members have earned these protections, and we will not stop until they are delivered.

At the same time, the DEA remains focused on protecting Detectives on the streets today. Throughout the NBA Finals, DEA Board Officers and our Union Canteen were present outside Madison Square Garden supporting members assigned to lengthy details and challenging crowd-control operations. We witnessed firsthand the professionalism of our Detectives and fellow officers under difficult and dangerous circumstances.

Unfortunately, we also witnessed unacceptable acts of violence against law enforcement. The DEA has been outspoken in demanding accountability for anyone who assaults a Detective or any cop. There must be consequences for those who attack the men and women who put themselves in harm’s way to protect this city. Our message to prosecutors and elected officials remains clear: support law enforcement, enforce the law, and hold offenders fully accountable.

We are also continuing our fight to pass the HALO Act and other legislation designed to protect our members from harassment, intimidation, and doxing. No Detective should be subjected to threats, targeted harassment, or interference simply for doing the job they were sworn to do. The men and women of this Department deserve the ability to perform their duties safely and professionally, and we will continue pushing for the legal protections necessary to make that a reality.

Whether in Albany, at City Hall, in Washington, D.C., or on the streets of New York City, the DEA remains committed to defending the rights, safety, and interests of every member. The challenges are real, but so is our resolve.

Together, we will continue fighting for the protections our members deserve and the respect our profession has earned.

Remember, it’s always about the membership.