The New York State Department of Labor has adopted an emergency rule that requires employers to provide an unemployment insurance notice to employees whose work schedule and/or employment status is impacted by COVID-19.

The State of New York has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 8091) that provides paid leave to employees subject to a quarantine or isolation order as a result of COVID-19.

New York has enacted legislation (Assembly Bill 712) that will require motor carriers to conduct pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing on certain drivers. Assembly Bill 712 takes effect Feb. 3, 2021.

New York City has expanded its sexual harassment prevention training requirements to cover independent contractors and freelancers effective Jan. 11, 2020. Starting Jan. 11, all independent contractors and freelancers are protected from employment discrimination and harassment under the City Human Rights Law.

New York's rules for paying certain tipped employees will change beginning June 30, 2020.

New York State recently released FAQs, which clarify certain sexual harassment prevention requirements.

New York's minimum wage will increase on December 31, 2019. This change is a result of a 2016 law that increased the minimum wage incrementally.

New York has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 1040) that expands employment protections for domestic violence victims. Senate Bill 1040 takes effect on November 18, 2019.