BUFFALO, N.Y. — New York Gov. Kathy Hochul was in Western New York on Monday to sign several new pieces of legislation to help bolster the state's workforce.
The new pieces of legislation include:
- Establishing a demonstration program that would implement speed violation monitoring systems in work zones by using photo monitoring devices; Legislation (S.4682-B/A.485-B)
- Making construction contractors liable for wages owed to employees of their subcontractors; Legislation (A.3350-A/S.2766-C)
- Requiring the payment of prevailing wage to building service employees at co-ops and condos that get 467-a tax abatements; Legislation (S.6350-A/A.7434-A)
- Extending shared work benefits; Legislation (S.4049/A.5678)
When it comes to extending shared work benefits, under the new legislation the cap is being charged to the amount of time equal to 26 weeks worth of benefits verses 26 straight weeks. In addition, employees working at reduced hours will be able to receive partial unemployment insurance benefits.
According to the Governor's Office, these four pieces of legislation will not only boost workplace safety, but they will also put more money in New Yorkers' pockets.
"On Labor Day every year, we're reminded of the vital contributions of organized labor to building New York, and that's why I'm signing four pieces of legislation to help workers thrive across our state," Governor Hochul said. "These bills will make sure workers are paid fair wages, receive good benefits and stay safe on their worksites. Our state is home to a long and proud legacy of supporting working New Yorkers, and we're working to bolster that for the future."
