Bill > A00584

This bill enacts the "Trapped at Work Act," which prohibits employers from requiring workers to sign employment promissory notes as a condition of employment. An employment promissory note is defined as an agreement that requires a worker to pay the employer a sum of money if they leave their job before a specified time period, including agreements framed as reimbursement for training. The bill broadly defines "workers" to include employees, independent contractors, interns, volunteers, and others providing services. Employers are prohibited from creating or enforcing such notes, which are deemed unconscionable and unenforceable. The law does allow some exceptions, such as agreements to repay advanced funds (except for training costs), pay for purchased property, or comply with collective bargaining agreements. Employers who violate the law can be fined between $1,000 and $5,000 per violation, with each affected worker constituting a separate violation. Additionally, if an employer tries to sue a worker to enforce an invalid promissory note, the worker can recover attorney's fees if they successfully defend against the lawsuit. The bill includes a savings clause to ensure that if any part of the law is found invalid, the rest of the law remains in effect.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A584