NYPD Traffic Enforcement Agent Union CWA Local 1182 Delivers Long-Awaited Change by Securing New Dental Provider for Union Members
New York, NY — After more than 20 years with the same dental provider, CWA Local 1182 has successfully secured a new dental plan for its members in 2026, delivering a long-requested improvement in benefits after listening closely to member concerns and prioritizing quality, accessible, and inclusive care for union families.
Following 14 months of sustained review, negotiations, and planning, union leadership announced the transition from Sele-Dent to Dental Select, marking a significant step forward in improving access, provider choice, and overall dental care for NYPD Traffic Enforcement Agents and CWA Local 1182 members.
The change follows years of feedback from members who raised concerns about limited provider networks, appointment availability, and service quality under the previous plan. Many members reported difficulty finding in-network dentists close to home, long wait times for appointments, and limited options for family care. Among the most serious concerns raised were the lack of in-network dentists equipped to treat children with autism and other special needs, forcing families to travel long distances, seek out-of-network care, or delay necessary treatment.
Rather than dismissing those concerns, CWA Local 1182 leadership committed to a thorough evaluation process — researching alternatives, consulting with benefits specialists, and negotiating on behalf of the membership to secure a plan better aligned with the real and diverse needs of union families.“This is exactly what a union is supposed to do — listen to its members and fight for better,” said President Alexander Sadik. “For over two decades, our dental coverage remained unchanged while our members’ needs evolved. We heard the complaints, we did the work, and we delivered results.”
Union officials emphasized that replacing a long-standing benefits provider is a complex and time-intensive process. The transition required careful analysis of coverage options, cost considerations, continuity of care, and administrative coordination to ensure members experience minimal disruption while gaining meaningful improvements.
Dental Select was chosen in large part because of its significantly expanded provider network, offering members access to a broader range of in-network dentists across New York City and surrounding areas. The expanded network is expected to reduce wait times, increase appointment availability, and give members greater flexibility to choose providers that are conveniently located near their homes or workplaces. Importantly, the expanded network also includes dentists trained to treat patients with special needs, including autistic children. These providers offer sensory-aware environments, specialized behavioral approaches, and the patience required to deliver effective and compassionate care to children who may struggle in traditional dental settings. President Alexander Sadik stressed that this enhancement is especially meaningful for families of autistic children, who have long advocated for access to providers that understand their children’s unique needs.“ For families with autistic children, finding a dentist isn’t just about convenience — it’s about safety, understanding, and dignity,” said a union representative. “This change ensures our members’ children can receive proper dental care without added stress or barriers.” In addition to specialized care, Dental Select’s larger provider pool gives families more choices for pediatric, general, and specialty dental services, helping ensure continuity of care as children grow and dental needs change.
For many members, the change represents more than just a new dental plan — it reflects accountability and responsiveness from their union. “We’ve been raising concerns about the dental plan for years,” said one union member. “As a parent of an autistic child, this change means everything. Knowing there are in-network dentists who are trained and prepared to treat my child is a huge relief.”Members will receive clear guidance on enrollment, provider directories, and how to locate special-needs dentists within the Dental Select network, ensuring families can quickly access the care they need. Union leadership also encouraged members to share ongoing feedback to help monitor the quality and effectiveness of the new provider.
The successful transition is part of a broader effort by CWA Local 1182 to modernize member benefits and ensure they reflect current standards of care and the diverse needs of union families.“ This wasn’t about change for the sake of change,” President Sadik added. “It was about doing what’s right for our members. When something isn’t working, we believe it’s our responsibility to fix it.”
CWA Local 1182 views this achievement as another example of its commitment to member-driven leadership, inclusivity, and meaningful advocacy. As the union moves forward, the dental provider transition stands as a clear demonstration of its dedication to listening, responding, and delivering tangible improvements for NYPD Traffic Enforcement Agents and the families they serve.
About CWA Local 1182The NYPD Traffic Enforcement Agent Union, CWA Local 1182, represents NYPD Traffic Enforcement Agents committed to keeping New York City streets safe and moving efficiently.