New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S02236

Introduced
1/16/25  
Refer
1/16/25  
Report Pass
3/3/25  
Engrossed
3/4/25  
Refer
3/5/25  
Engrossed
6/12/25  

Caption

Amends provisions relating to payment of wages to include compensation that is not payable solely at the employer's discretion; requires certain notices.

Impact

The implementation of S02236 would necessitate that employers provide clear, timely notifications to employees regarding the discretionary nature of bonuses or other forms of compensation. If such notifications are not provided in a manner deemed 'clear, prominent, timely, and uncontradicted,' the employer could be presumed to have waived their discretion over the payment, effectively protecting employee rights. This could lead to a more transparent work environment where employees are better informed about their earnings.

Summary

S02236, also known as the 'Wage Payment Integrity Act,' aims to amend provisions of the New York labor law concerning the payment of wages. Specifically, the bill redefines what constitutes 'wages' to include compensation that is not entirely at the employer's discretion. This change seeks to ensure that employees receive fair notification about their compensation, especially regarding bonuses and other employment-related payments that may not traditionally fall under wage definitions.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S02236 include concerns from some business groups who fear that the amendments might impose additional administrative burdens on employers. They argue that the requirement for clear notification could complicate company policies regarding bonuses and discretionary pay. Proponents of the bill, however, maintain that these amendments will enhance employee protections against wage theft and ensure that all compensation agreements are communicated effectively, promoting fairness in the workplace.

Companion Bills

NY A02222

Same As Amends provisions relating to payment of wages to include compensation that is not payable solely at the employer's discretion; requires certain notices.

Previously Filed As

NY S04973

Amends provisions relating to payment of wages to include compensation that is not payable solely at the employer's discretion; requires certain notices; expands enforcement provisions.

NY A05348

Amends provisions relating to payment of wages to include compensation that is not payable solely at the employer's discretion; requires certain notices; expands enforcement provisions.

NY A06170

Relates to notice requirements for the termination of temporary workers' compensation payments and cessation of compensation payments.

NY A01924

Includes public employment in wage payment provisions.

NY S07192

Includes public employment in wage payment provisions.

NY A05969

Exempts notices for certain payments in lieu of taxes in New York city.

NY S06999

Exempts notices for certain payments in lieu of taxes in New York city.

NY A07075

Increases the state discretionary buying threshold without a formal competitive process for certain commodities from certain businesses, including construction services.

NY S07100

Increases the state discretionary buying threshold without a formal competitive process for certain commodities from certain businesses, including construction services.

NY S08039

Relates to contracted compensation payments; provides for the payment of freelance workers as independent contractors, including requiring written contracts; timely payment of compensation and handling controversies relating to payment, complaint procedures, and penalties; excludes construction contracts.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.