Bill > S08337

This bill establishes minimum base wage requirements for "human services workers," defined as employees providing direct care, support, or treatment, or whose jobs aim to improve an individual's health and welfare, within "eligible programs." Eligible programs are state-funded initiatives (licensed or certified by specific state "offices" like the Office of Mental Health or Department of Health) aimed at improving health and welfare by addressing social problems. The bill sets a phased-in base wage schedule for these workers, with higher rates for the "downstate region" (Bronx, Kings, New York, Nassau, Queens, Richmond, Suffolk, and Westchester counties) compared to the "rest of the state." For the downstate region, the base wage will increase from $20 per hour in April 2026 to $29 per hour or 400% of the federal poverty level by April 2029, while the rest of the state will see an increase from $19 per hour in April 2026 to $29 per hour or 400% of the federal poverty level by April 2030. After these dates, the base wages will be adjusted annually based on inflation. The state offices are mandated to provide sufficient funding for these wage increases and will not require local social services districts to contribute matching funds or cover other cost shifts. The bill also requires the offices to develop processes for providers to report eligible employees and to distribute funds accordingly.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8337