New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S07388

Introduced
4/14/25  
Refer
4/14/25  
Report Pass
5/20/25  
Engrossed
6/10/25  
Refer
6/10/25  

Caption

Provides that the New York labor law shall be construed liberally for the accomplishment of its remedial purposes.

Impact

The bill demands that all future judicial interpretations of labor laws align with its broad remedial goals. It instructs courts to interpret exceptions and exemptions within the labor law very narrowly to enhance deterrents against unlawful actions by employers. This approach aims to uphold the rights of workers across various contexts, particularly in wage disputes and employment being dealt with specific local conditions. Overall, the legislation is designed to foster greater accountability within the workplace that could lead to higher standards of compliance among employers.

Summary

Bill S07388, known as the 'Remedial Construction of New York Labor Law Act,' aims to reinforce the protections provided under New York labor laws by mandating a liberal construction of these laws in favor of workers. The bill emphasizes ensuring that workers receive all earned wages, liquidated damages, and protections from retaliation, while also confirming the importance of equal pay for equal work. This act also seeks to protect compliant employers from unfair competition posed by those who violate labor laws.

Contention

While the bill is positioned as a means to bolster worker protections, there may be arguments regarding its implications for business operations. Some business groups could argue that a strict interpretation may create operational challenges and increase the risk of litigation. Conversely, labor advocates may argue that such measures are crucial for creating a fair work environment that prioritizes worker welfare. Thus, the tension lies in balancing adequate worker protection and maintaining a business-friendly environment.

Companion Bills

NY A07863

Same As Provides that the New York labor law shall be construed liberally for the accomplishment of its remedial purposes.

Previously Filed As

NY A01661

Relates to the New York city housing authority and mold remediation; after reporting such authority shall have 15 days to remediate such reported mold.

NY S04777

Relates to the New York city housing authority and mold remediation; after reporting such authority shall have 15 days to remediate such reported mold.

NY A03355

Provides that lands held by the Cayuga Indian Nation of New York shall not be considered a qualified reservation for purposes of certain tax law and real property tax law provisions.

NY S06437

Provides that an electronic marketplace provider shall be deemed to be a retailer for purposes of New York strict liability law and shall be strictly liable for all damages caused by defective products placed into the stream of commerce to the same extent that a retailer of that defective product would be liable.

NY A01912

Authorizes labor unions to work with the city of New York to finance the construction of affordable housing for its members.

NY S06850

Authorizes labor unions to work with the city of New York to finance the construction of affordable housing for its members.

NY S05324

Provides that members of the assembly and senate of New York shall not serve more than six two-year terms.

NY S08451

Provides that the commissioner of labor shall notify the chairman of the state liquor authority of certain violations of the labor law relating to wages and hours of labor; provides that the chairman of the state liquor authority shall suspend certain liquor licenses of such employers in violation of such provisions.

NY A09033

Provides that the commissioner of labor shall notify the chairman of the state liquor authority of certain violations of the labor law relating to wages and hours of labor; provides that the chairman of the state liquor authority shall suspend certain liquor licenses of such employers in violation of such provisions.

NY S08453

Provides that the commissioner of labor shall notify the commissioner of taxation and finance of certain violations of the labor law relating to wages and hours of labor; provides that the commissioner of taxation and finance shall suspend certain certificates of authority of such employers in violation of such provisions.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.