Mayor Adams’ commitment to pay equity for EMTs faces significant opposition within City Hall, according to new information.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is facing increasing scrutiny regarding his commitment to raise salaries for emergency medical services (EMS) workers within the Fire Department of New York (FDNY). Despite pledges made during his 2021 campaign to equalize wages for EMS personnel—who typically earn around ,000—with those of firefighters, who start at approximately ,000, little progress appears to have been made as his first term nears its conclusion.

Adams publicly vowed to rectify the longstanding issue of pay disparity among EMS workers, stating that they have been “shamefully denied pay parity.” Union leaders argue that the current starting salaries contribute significantly to a staffing crisis, which has adversely affected emergency response times citywide. Many EMS workers have expressed that their low wages have driven them into precarious financial situations, leading some to live in homeless shelters.

New developments indicate that internal opposition may be complicating negotiations aimed at addressing EMS compensation. A recording from a November 2023 meeting, involving Ingrid Lewis-Martin, a former chief adviser to the mayor who resigned after facing multiple corruption charges, has surfaced. In discussions with EMS advocates, Lewis-Martin downplayed the efforts and risks associated with EMS work, suggesting that they do not operate “on the same level” as firefighters or police officers. Her remarks brought forth disbelief among advocates and representatives of unionized EMS personnel, who maintain that their roles are equally hazardous and critical.

Oren Barzilay, president of an EMS union, recounted a similar confrontation with Lewis-Martin, during which she allegedly disregarded the dangers inherent in EMS work when compared to firefighting. This sentiment has underscored a widening disconnect between the administration’s commitments and the perspectives of first responders.

As negotiations extend beyond three years without a contract—marked by stalled discussions and a lack of substantial movement on wage parity—EMS representatives are pressing for the fulfillment of the mayor’s promise. The current impasse threatens to exacerbate already critical staffing shortages, with many ambulance units reportedly out of service due to insufficient personnel.

The ongoing labor dispute occurs against a backdrop of Adams navigating a challenging reelection campaign, amid rumors of potentially stepping back from the race to pursue an appointment in a future Trump administration. With the mayor facing a crucial primary in November, the EMS community remains vigilant and continues to demand assurances regarding their pay and working conditions.

Staffing deficiencies within the FDNY have reportedly resulted in significant increases in emergency response times, raising concerns among the public and emergency services alike. As union advocates reiterate the urgency of their cause, they continue to call for the mayor to uphold his commitment to equitable compensation, emphasizing the essential services they provide to millions of New Yorkers in critical moments.