Bill > S01253

This bill establishes a temporary state commission to conduct a comprehensive study on paid family leave in New York, focusing on understanding its current usage and identifying ways to improve access. The 12-member commission, appointed by the governor, will include representatives from labor unions, business groups, state legislators, and key state agencies like the Department of Labor and Workers' Compensation Board. The study will analyze detailed demographic information about paid family leave users, including gender, race, age, geographic region, and employment type, as well as examine the average benefits received, types of leave taken, and employers' experiences with the program. The commission will specifically investigate potential barriers that prevent employees from utilizing paid family leave, such as limited understanding of benefits, eligibility requirements, and awareness of the program's existence. Within one year of the bill's effective date, the commission must submit a report to the governor and legislative leaders with findings and specific recommendations for increasing access to paid family leave among underserved groups. The bill is temporary, set to expire two years after becoming law, and the commission members will serve without compensation but will be reimbursed for their necessary expenses.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1253