Bill > A01513

This bill aims to establish safe staffing standards for public employees in various institutional settings, including correctional facilities, mental health facilities, juvenile offender facilities, and facilities for people with developmental disabilities. It sets strict limits on mandatory overtime, prohibiting employees from being required to work more than 17 hours in a 24-hour period or more than 80 hours in a 14-day period, except during declared emergencies. The bill requires that employees who work 17 hours must have at least 8 consecutive hours off duty and cannot be required to work more than seven consecutive days without a 24-hour break. Facilities must submit quarterly public reports detailing staffing levels, resignations, vacancies, recruitment efforts, staff assaults and injuries, and other relevant information. While collective bargaining agreements can potentially modify overtime limits, they must include measures to prevent employee fatigue. The bill emphasizes that these provisions are intended to ensure staff safety and a humane environment for residents, and do not diminish existing employee rights. The legislation will take effect 60 days after becoming law, addressing what lawmakers describe as a current crisis of staff recruitment, retention, and excessive overtime in custodial and care facilities.

Business and Industry, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1513