New Laws for New York Employers in a New Year: What to Know as 2025 Unfolds
Employers in New York State and New York City face unique challenges given all the new workplace laws that are passed each year – and 2024 was no different. Indeed, multiple bills were enacted in the past year that will raise the workplace compliance stakes for the year ahead. Let’s take a closer look at the key laws that took effect in 2024 or are set to take effect in 2025, as well as new legislation that may be on the horizon. Minimum Wage and Other Compensation Laws Minimum wage increases - New York State’s minimum wage increase d from $16 to $16.50 for workers in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester. The minimum wage for the rest of the state increased to $15.50. These increases took effect on January 1. Minimum wage will continue to increase incrementally over the next few years, reaching $17 per hour in certain parts of the state by January 1, 2026 . Thereafter, increases will automatically be tied to inflation using the Consumer Price Index. Cash wag...