Bill > A09082

This bill establishes a comprehensive wage requirement system for human services workers employed in state-funded programs that aim to improve individuals' health and welfare. The legislation defines "human services workers" as employees who provide direct care, support, or treatment in eligible programs, with specific wage increases phased in differently for the downstate region (including Bronx, Kings, New York, Nassau, Queens, Richmond, Suffolk, and Westchester counties) and the rest of the state. For the downstate region, the base wage will gradually increase from $20 per hour in April 2026 to $29 per hour by April 2029, while the rest of the state will see a similar but slightly slower progression, reaching $29 per hour by April 2030. The bill covers workers in various state agencies like the Office of Mental Health, Office of Addiction Services and Supports, and others, and requires these agencies to provide sufficient funding to ensure contractors and subcontractors pay the mandated wages. After reaching the full $29 per hour rate, the base wage will be annually adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners in the northeast region, with increases rounded to the nearest five cents. The legislation also requires agencies to create a list of eligible employee titles and distribute allocations to providers to support these wage increases.

Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9082