Bill > A02249

This bill defines and establishes regulations for model management companies and groups in New York State, introducing several key provisions to protect models and standardize industry practices. The bill creates a formal definition of a "model management group" as two or more model management companies majority-owned by the same parent entity, and establishes a comprehensive registration process requiring these companies to provide detailed information about their business, pay registration fees, and obtain a certificate of registration. Model management companies and groups must now act with a fiduciary duty to models, ensuring good faith representation, conducting due diligence to prevent dangerous work environments, and providing transparent documentation like deal memos and final agreements. The legislation prohibits certain exploitative practices, such as charging models upfront fees, imposing excessive contract terms, or creating digital replicas without consent. Clients are also required to provide fair working conditions, including higher compensation for extended hours and meal breaks. The bill introduces penalties for non-compliance, allowing the commissioner to impose civil penalties and enabling models to file complaints. Models can seek damages for violations, and the bill includes protections against retaliation for exercising their rights under this new law. The registration requirements will take effect one year after the law's initial implementation, giving businesses time to adapt to the new regulations.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2249