Bill > A07873

This bill, known as the "No Slavery in New York Act," aims to abolish slavery, involuntary servitude, and forced labor in New York state, specifically focusing on correctional facilities. The legislation explicitly prohibits compelling or inducing incarcerated individuals to work against their will through force, threats, or adverse actions, which are defined to include using institutional rules, regulations, and disciplinary processes as a means of coercion. By amending the state's civil rights law and correction law, the bill seeks to ensure that no person, including those convicted of a crime, can be forced to labor without their consent. The proposed changes are comprehensive, covering both state and local correctional facilities, and effectively eliminate any legal framework that could be interpreted as permitting slavery or involuntary servitude. The bill includes a severability clause, which means that if any part of the legislation is found invalid by a court, the rest of the act will remain in effect. The legislation is set to take effect immediately upon passage, signaling the state's commitment to protecting the rights of incarcerated individuals and eliminating any form of compulsory labor.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7873