Queens, NY (March 30, 2026) - Standing in support of NYC retirees, NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., joined over 100 members of the NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees for a rally on March 24th, at the historic Million Dollar Staircase in the New York State Capitol. 

Gathering at the rally were retirees, advocates, and lawmakers to raise concerns about rising healthcare costs, coverage instability, and the growing impact of Medicare Advantage plans on access to care. Senator Addabbo heard retirees who shared personal stories highlighting the uncertainty many now face after decades of public service.

“New York’s retirees upheld their end of the promise through a lifetime of service to our communities,” said Addabbo. “Now we, the legislature, have a responsibility to uphold ours and protect the retirees. These retired individuals should not be forced to shoulder higher costs or navigate increasing uncertainty in retirement. We need to take action to protect affordability, preserve access to trusted providers, and ensure the benefits they earned remain intact,” Addabbo concluded.

Rally attendees emphasized that many retirees are living on fixed incomes and cannot absorb additional financial burdens, including higher copays, unexpected medical bills, or disruptions to their care. Concerns were also raised about losing access to trusted doctors and established care providers under shifting coverage models.

“We should not balance budgets on the backs of retirees,” added Addabbo. “These individuals dedicated their careers to serving New York, and they deserve security, dignity, and reliable access to care in retirement,” argued Addabbo.

Participants called on state and city leaders to take immediate action to:

• Protect access to traditional Medicare
• Prevent additional out-of-pocket healthcare costs
• Ensure continuity of care and provider access
• Uphold commitments made to public service retirees

Without legislative intervention, advocates warned that the erosion of healthcare benefits will continue, forcing retirees into difficult choices between medical care and everyday living expenses. 

“As policymakers, we must act legislatively and through the budget process to honor our commitments and protect those who have given so much to our city and state,” Addabbo stated.