New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08421

Introduced
5/15/25  

Caption

Provides that arbitration awards in consumer and employment disputes, where the arbitration is conducted pursuant to a contract, shall include all issues in dispute and the arbitrator's findings of fact and conclusions of law.

Impact

The implementation of A08421 will likely have significant implications for the arbitration process in New York state. By making it mandatory for arbitrators to include specific findings and conclusions in their awards, this bill could help parties understand the rationale behind arbitration decisions better. This transparency may lead to increased trust in arbitration as a viable alternative dispute resolution mechanism, particularly for individuals who may feel vulnerable in contractual disputes with larger entities such as employers or corporations.

Summary

Bill A08421 seeks to amend existing civil practice laws in New York related to arbitration awards in consumer and employment disputes. It aims to ensure that when arbitration occurs under a contract, the award must detail all issues in dispute along with the arbitrator's findings of fact and conclusions of law. The objective of this legislation appears to enhance clarity and transparency in arbitration outcomes, especially for consumers and employees who might otherwise find themselves at a disadvantage in the arbitration process.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding A08421 is its exception related to collective bargaining agreements negotiated with labor unions. Critics may argue that this exclusion could undermine the bill’s effectiveness in protecting workers’ rights in situations where labor unions negotiate terms. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the potential impact of this bill on the speed and efficiency of arbitration processes, with opponents suggesting that adding requirements for detailed findings could prolong arbitration timelines and complicate proceedings.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S04107

Provides that arbitration awards in consumer and employment disputes, where the arbitration is conducted pursuant to a contract, shall include all issues in dispute and the arbitrator's findings of fact and conclusions of law.

NY A03450

Provides that arbitration awards in consumer and employment disputes, where the arbitration is conducted pursuant to a contract, shall include all issues in dispute and the arbitrator's findings of fact and conclusions of law.

NY A00706

Requires employment and consumer dispute arbitrations to be submitted to neutral third party arbitrators; establishes prohibited arbitration agreements and provisions; requires disclosure of information by certain arbitrators.

NY S03259

Requires employment and consumer dispute arbitrations to be submitted to neutral third party arbitrators; establishes prohibited arbitration agreements and provisions; requires disclosure of information by certain arbitrators.

NY S03263

Authorizes the vacating of an arbitration award on the basis of arbitrator disregard of the law.

NY A03775

Authorizes the vacating of an arbitration award on the basis of arbitrator disregard of the law.

NY S00684

Prohibits mandatory arbitration agreements in consumer and employment contracts; repeals existing provisions prohibiting mandatory arbitration clauses in certain consumer contracts.

NY A00683

Prohibits mandatory arbitration agreements in consumer and employment contracts; repeals existing provisions prohibiting mandatory arbitration clauses in certain consumer contracts.

NY S05277

Prohibits the state from entering into certain contracts with companies requiring employees to stipulate to binding arbitration for all disputes unless it excludes disputes involving sexual assault.

NY S00461

Requires disclosure of possible conflicts; provides for the vacating of an arbitration award on the ground that the arbitrator was affiliated in any way with any party, or has a financial interest directly or indirectly in any party or in the outcome of the arbitration.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.