Buffalo Teachers Threaten Court Action Over Cosmetic Surgery

The Buffalo School Board has come up with a plan to save $5 million as a way to close a $11.9 million budget gap. They say eliminating the teachers' cosmetic surgery rider is the key. The head of the teachers' union says: not so fast.

Buffalo Teachers Federation President Phil Rumore says if the board goes ahead with the plan he'll take it to court.

Buffalo teachers have been working without a new contract since 2004. Under state law when that happens contract terms under the most recent contract continue. In this case the teachers should continue to benefit from the controversial cosmetic surgery rider, which allows tummy tucks, breast lifts and nose jobs – all paid for by taxpayers.

The Buffalo School Board says they want to put the "resources from this useless privilege back into the classroom".  They plan to vote on the measure on Wednesday night.