Bill > S01698

This bill, known as the "standing is tiring (sit) act", requires employers in covered industries such as retail, restaurant, grocery, clerical, carwash, maintenance, and healthcare to provide suitable seats to employees when the nature of their work reasonably permits seated work. The bill prohibits employers from artificially designing workspaces to require standing and mandates that when seated work is not possible, employers must provide anti-fatigue mats or other ergonomic controls. The Department of Labor will develop rules for determining when seated work is appropriate, considering factors like task performance and workspace layout. Employees will have the right to file complaints online if their employer does not comply, and the department can issue fines for violations. Additionally, the bill creates a private right of action, allowing employees to sue employers who fail to provide suitable seating. The bill also includes protections against retaliation, establishing a presumption of unlawful retaliation if an employer takes adverse action against an employee within 90 days of filing a complaint. The act will take effect one year after becoming law and applies to all employees, including part-time workers, independent contractors, and temporary workers.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1698