Bill > A04368

This bill amends the workers' compensation law to create a specific exemption for employers who are members of certain recognized religious sects with long-standing commitments against involvement in governmental practices and insurance systems. Under the proposed law, such an employer can file an application with the department of labor to be exempted from workers' compensation coverage for employees who are also members of the same religious sect. To qualify, the employer must submit an application that includes written waivers from employees and affidavits confirming their religious sect's opposition to insurance benefits. The department will grant the exemption if they determine that the employees are genuinely part of a sect with established teachings against insurance and that the sect has a documented practice of providing for its dependent members at a reasonable level consistent with their standard of living. The exemption will be valid for all future years unless the employee or sect no longer meets the initial requirements. In the case of a minor employee, a guardian can provide the necessary waiver and affidavit. This bill essentially allows certain religious groups with specific beliefs about insurance to opt out of mandatory workers' compensation coverage.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4368