BUFFALO, N.Y. — New York State is enacting three significant worker protection laws that aim to address safety concerns across various industries, an effort largely influenced by the tragic mass shooting that occurred at a Tops supermarket in Buffalo in May 2022.
The new regulations focus on enhancing safety for employees in retail, fashion, and warehouse settings. According to the New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon, the “Retail Worker Safety Act” was directly inspired by the events at the Buffalo supermarket, making it a personal and urgent issue for Governor Kathy Hochul, who hails from the area.
Under this legislation, businesses with more than 10 employees are mandated to provide interactive training that equips workers to recognize and respond to potential violence in the workplace. Additionally, employers with over 500 employees must install silent alarm systems or provide wearable alert devices for their staff. In some cases, the establishment of safe rooms may also be required to create a secure environment for workers.
Reardon highlighted the importance of the new laws, emphasizing the need to protect the more than 800,000 individuals employed in the state’s retail sector. “Ensuring the safety of retail workers is not just a workplace issue; it promotes the safety of the public too,” she noted.
The “Fashion Workers Act,” set to take effect on June 19, will enhance protections for models by improving transparency during photo shoots, ensuring fair compensation through royalties, and limiting the duration of contracts. This comprehensive law extends to all modeling assignments conducted within the state, not just in New York City.
Reardon pointed out that unfair labor practices have long been a concern in the fashion industry, which often sees a significant imbalance of power. “For years, there have been discussions about the need for better protections, and this law aims to address those disparities,” she stated.
In addition to the previous warehouse worker safety laws introduced in 2023, a new legislative package focusing on workplace evaluations aims to prevent back and shoulder injuries among warehouse employees. Effective June 1, this set of regulations seeks to address concerns raised by lawmakers and labor organizations regarding the increased automation in warehouse operations.
Employers who fail to comply with these new regulations will face financial penalties, ensuring accountability in the pursuit of improved employee safety standards.
These laws reflect a broader commitment by the state to enhance worker protections across the board, responding to both employee advocacy and public safety concerns.
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