To be eligible for payment, the membership must be directly related to the employee's professional duties and the activities of the agency, and must provide benefits to the agency. Generally, the benefits should include the following:

• Subscriptions to professional journals, newsletters and other publications related to agency functions or interests
• Research services
• Access to professional meetings and conferences
• Reduced rates for conferences or training sessions

A Division head can authorize payment of dues for staff members involved in professional organizations. The justification for authorizing the payment must include a statement that sufficient financial resources are available and the work of the organization is related to, and advances, the professional interests of the State agency. The benefits to the agency should be clearly articulated in the justification. Memberships in an individual's name will be allowed as long as all materials and benefits received from the membership are the property of the agency and made available to all agency employees.

Office of the State Comptroller
Bureau of State Expenditures
(518) 402-4104