§ 200. Statement of policy. The legislature of the state of New York
declares that it is the public policy of the state and the purpose of
this act to promote harmonious and cooperative relationships between
government and its employees and to protect the public by assuring, at
all times, the orderly and uninterrupted operations and functions of
government. These policies are best effectuated by (a) granting to
public employees the right of organization and representation, (b)
requiring the state, local governments and other political subdivisions
to negotiate with, and enter into written agreements with employee
organizations representing public employees which have been certified or
recognized, (c) encouraging such public employers and such employee
organizations to agree upon procedures for resolving disputes, (d)
creating a public employment relations board to assist in resolving
disputes between public employees and public employers, and (e)
continuing the prohibition against strikes by public employees and
providing remedies for violations of such prohibition.