Bill > S00726

This bill waives the state of New York's sovereign immunity, which is a legal doctrine that typically prevents government entities from being sued without their consent, for specific federal employment and disability-related laws. Specifically, the bill allows the state, its instrumentalities (such as state agencies or public authorities), and political subdivisions (like counties and municipalities) to be sued in state and federal courts for alleged violations of four key federal laws: the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities; the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which establishes minimum wage and overtime pay standards; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), which protects workers over 40 from employment discrimination; and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which provides eligible employees with unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons. By removing sovereign immunity for these specific laws, the bill enables individuals to seek legal recourse and potential damages if they believe these employment and disability rights have been violated by New York state or its related governmental entities.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S726