Bill > A00992

This bill amends the New York labor law to provide clearer definitions and protections for employee bonuses and wages. Specifically, it expands the definition of "wages" to explicitly include bonuses, with two key conditions: first, when the bonus calculation formula is certain and all necessary data is available to the employer, and second, when the employer has declared a specific bonus amount. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision that makes wages non-forfeitable once the amount can be reasonably determined, which means employers cannot arbitrarily withhold or rescind wages that have been earned or can be calculated with reasonable certainty. This legislation aims to provide more transparency and protection for employees regarding their compensation, ensuring that promised bonuses and wages are treated as earned income that cannot be unfairly taken away by the employer. The changes apply broadly across different types of compensation, whether determined by time, piece, commission, bonus, or other methods, and will take effect immediately upon enactment.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A992