Bill > A00479

This bill introduces a new provision to the New York labor law that entitles employees aged 45 and older to take one day of leave every ten years specifically for undergoing a colonoscopy. The bill defines an "employee" as someone working an average of 20 or more hours per week for an employer, and an "employer" as any entity with 20 or more employees, including businesses, nonprofits, and governmental organizations. The legislation mandates that employers grant this leave and prohibits retaliation against employees who request or use this benefit. The bill, named "45 saves lives," aims to support preventive healthcare by ensuring that middle-aged and older workers can take time off for important medical screenings without fear of workplace consequences. The new law will go into effect 90 days after it is signed, and it does not impact any other existing employee benefits. This targeted approach seeks to encourage regular colonoscopy screenings, which are crucial for early detection of colorectal cancer, particularly in individuals over 45 years old.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A479