Bill > A04048

This bill establishes new protections and rights for parents and legal guardians to work remotely or request flexible working arrangements during a state or local disaster emergency that closes schools or day care centers. The bill defines key terms such as "parent" (including biological, foster, adoptive, and guardians), "school-aged child" (children in 3-K through 12th grade), and "flexible working arrangement" (changes in work schedule, hours, location, or job-sharing). It creates a rebuttable presumption that an employee can work remotely if they have already done so for two consecutive pay periods or two weeks in the current or previous year. Employers must consider remote work requests and respond within 14 days, though they are not required to accept all requests. The bill allows employers to deny requests if the arrangement would be inconsistent with business operations, which includes factors like additional costs, impact on employee morale, consumer demand, and business performance. The legislation also prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who request such arrangements and establishes a civil penalty of $500 for violations, which can be enforced by the commissioner. Importantly, the bill does not diminish existing rights under collective bargaining agreements and allows localities to enact even stronger protections.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4048