Bill > S04726

This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to require government agencies and public employers to provide more transparency and employee protections when personnel records are requested under the state's freedom of information law. Specifically, agencies must now send written notification to an employee when a request for their personnel records has been approved, detailing exactly which documents have been requested, provided, or are set to be made public. Additionally, upon receiving this official notification, the employee must be given the opportunity to inspect their own personnel file or any documents referencing them that are part of the information request. The bill ensures that this new notification requirement does not limit existing rights employees may have to inspect their personnel files through collective bargaining agreements or other legal provisions. The changes will take effect 30 days after the bill becomes law, providing a clear process to protect employee privacy and ensure they are informed when their personnel records are being shared.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4726