Bill > A01202

This bill amends the New York civil service law to provide new protections for public employees dealing with workers' compensation claims. Specifically, the bill allows public employees (including those in state, county, school district, and other public sector roles) who are required to serve a waiting period for workers' compensation or whose claim is being contested to voluntarily use accrued time such as sick leave, compensation time, personal time, or vacation time during that period. Importantly, employers cannot require employees to use their accrued time during this waiting period. If an employee uses accrued time and is later determined to have been entitled to workers' compensation benefits, they will have their used time fully restored. The bill does not apply to employees covered by collective bargaining agreements, but unions have the option to opt in to these provisions or negotiate similar or different benefits. The legislation aims to provide flexibility and protection for public employees during potentially challenging workers' compensation claim periods, while preserving the collective bargaining process and existing employee rights.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1202