David Lombardo is reporting for the Times Union legislation that would have required local governments to give 30 days' notice ahead of substantive changes to the health plans for retired local public employees was vetoed by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo last month. Cuomo has opposed similar measures in the past. The notification issue has become more pressing in recent years due to steadily rising health care costs, which are leading municipalities to adopt stripped-down health plans for retirees. Arguing against the legislation, the New York Conference of Mayors argued a fixed period for notification was not practical. A representative of the Retired Public Employees Association said retirees want a heads-up about potential changes so they can have input in the process and make informed decisions about their health insurance. The governor's veto message claimed the bill would automatically add to the fiscal stress felt by municipalities. Lombardo writes it is not clear if the retirees' association will propose reducing the notification period the next time around. Read the full story in the Times Union.