Bill > A00912

This bill adds a new section to New York labor law that prohibits contract provisions that waive substantive or procedural rights related to employment claims involving discrimination, wage issues, retaliation, harassment, or public policy violations. Specifically, the bill declares such waiver provisions unconscionable and unenforceable, preventing employers from requiring employees to sign away their legal protections. The law also prohibits contracts that attempt to conceal details about such claims, including those submitted to arbitration. Employers are forbidden from retaliating against employees who refuse to sign agreements with these prohibited waiver clauses. Employees who are aggrieved by violations of this law can file a civil action within three years, seeking tort remedies, injunctive relief, litigation costs, and attorney's fees. The bill does not apply to collective bargaining agreements and does not invalidate entire contracts, only the specific waiver provisions. Importantly, the law allows for additional legal remedies beyond those outlined in this specific section, ensuring employees maintain comprehensive protections against workplace misconduct. The law will take effect immediately and apply to all contracts entered into, renewed, modified, or amended after its enactment.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A912