Mayor Mamdani Sues NYC Council to Block $10,000 Teacher Aide Bonuses

The lawsuit, filed in state court, challenges a City Council law that would give a one-time payment to paraprofessionals and teacher aides. Mamdani argues the measure violates the Taylor Law, which requires the city to negotiate wages and benefits with its unions.

Mayoral spokesperson Matt Rauschenbach said in a statement that the council's action undermines collective bargaining and sets a dangerous precedent. "Collective bargaining is how working people make their voices heard and win the wages, benefits and protections they deserve," he said. "Instead of protecting that process, the City Council has passed legislation that allows politicians to bypass workers and their unions."

Council Speaker Julie Menin and Council member Carmen de la Rosa, who introduced the bill, defended it as both fair and fiscally prudent. In a joint statement, they said the bonus would help retain paraprofessionals and reduce the risk of lawsuits over inadequate care for students with special needs.

Mamdani's lawsuit warns that if the law stands, other public employees may seek similar payments from the council outside the bargaining process. The United Federation of Teachers, which backs the legislation, says the bill was drafted to comply with the Taylor Law and is prepared to fight in court.

Mamdani supported the bonus during his campaign but changed his position after taking office. The one-time payment would cost the city an estimated $10,000 per eligible worker.