It's Vote Cope time again, and new members may be asking: What exactly is Vote Cope? Vote Cope is the committee on political education and a non-partisan political action arm of the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT). It helps strengthen political action programs on all levels nationally, state and locally. Foremost, locally it provides rebates to participating unions for local political action. More often at times, political promises sound great until one looks more closely at the many bureaucratic snafus and wide sweeping policies. Here’s where the Vote Cope plays its role. It is used as our voice in the political arena and a political tool to help union-backed candidates and campaign committees that support HPTA goals and objectives on education and labor. Vote Cope solicits and accepts only voluntary contributions that are non-tax-deductible. To contribute voluntarily is an integral part of every member of HPTA. It is a great union investment to achieve our goals. Giving to Vote Cope is an effective way to show our solidarity as a political action fund. It strengthens our collective bargaining in the legislature and at the bargaining table for our active and involved members. Decisions on the use of Vote Cope contributions are made by statewide committees on issues that affect union members, used to fight for legislation and contracts that provide most beneficial terms to all HPTA members both working and retired. Both state and federal laws strictly regulate these funds. Lastly, Vote Cope represents our voice on the political process and the cause for which we believe and need. It is the best weapon to guarantee and protect our rights and benefits. Please do not forget to give your fair share contribution to Vote Cope. How much should I give? We are asking all members of the HPTA to consider giving to Vote Cope
using the following formula: |