TO:
Trustees

Today, Governor David Paterson vetoed legislation (S.8047-A, Morahan/A.11499, Rivera) that would have inappropriately given the Office of Mental Health and Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities oversight over trustee training.

This veto would not have happened without the grassroots advocacy of many trustees and hospital leaders. I thank each of you for contacting the Governor’s office to oppose this legislation.

While Healthcare Trustees of New York State (HTNYS) embraces the value of health care trustee education, this bill was inappropriate for hospitals.

Trustee education is an integral part of HTNYS’ agenda. HTNYS provides a vast array of educational opportunities. In addition to our Annual Conference, we hold “AudioConnect” audioconferences, which we also make available on our Web site. Recently we released Boardroom Basics to provide an orientation guide for trustees on their roles and responsibilities.

HTNYS’ educational programming schedule for next year will be available in early 2009. I encourage you and your fellow board members to participate in these educational opportunities and to continue to make education a board priority.

Again, I appreciate your advocacy efforts on this critically important issue.