S4424A

The New York State Senate passed the Anti Waiver of Employment Rights Act on a 46-11 vote, with Sen. Ramos sponsoring the measure. The bill prohibits employers from forcing workers to waive their legal protections under New York labor and Human Rights Law through hidden clauses in job applications, on-boarding forms, and employment contracts. Ramos argued the legislation does not create new rights but rather protects existing protections that workers may unknowingly surrender, preventing wage theft and discrimination from going unaddressed. She characterized the measure as restoring workplace balance and supporting honest employers while cracking down on bad actors who hide restrictive language in paperwork. Eleven senators voted against the bill, including Borrello, Chan, Helming, Lanza, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Stec, Tedisco, and Walczyk. Ramos expressed hope that the Assembly will also pass the legislation so it can be sent to the Governor for signature.

The Senate passed legislation amending the Labor Law on a 46-13 vote. Sponsored by Sen. Ramos, Senate Print 4424A (Calendar No. 1192) received support from a majority of the chamber. Thirteen senators voted in opposition: Borrello, Chan, Helming, Lanza, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk and Weik. The bill is effective immediately upon passage.