S4514A

The New York State Senate passed legislation amending the Labor Law on a 46-14 vote, with sponsor Sen. Ramos arguing the measure represents a fundamental step toward reducing poverty through intentional government investments in working families. Ramos contended that poverty in New York is rooted in instability and the inability of families to plan for the future, despite working full-time and contributing to their communities. She argued that when government makes targeted investments in working people, poverty decreases in real terms, strengthening the state's economy and communities. The bill aims to align state systems to actively reduce poverty rather than simply manage it, giving families the ability to afford housing, childcare and basic necessities while building stability. Fourteen senators voted against the measure, including Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Griffo, Helming, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Rhoads, Stec, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. The bill takes effect immediately.