New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A03998

Introduced
1/30/25  
Refer
1/30/25  

Caption

Relates to employee access to lactation rooms in the workplace; requires that employers post written policies regarding the rights of nursing employees.

Summary

Bill A03998 seeks to amend the New York labor law to enhance employee access to lactation rooms in the workplace. It mandates that employers designate a hygienic, private, and accessible room for employees to express breast milk, ensuring that this space is not a restroom. The bill also requires employers to provide written policies outlining the rights of nursing employees, which must be communicated to all employees upon hiring and annually thereafter, as well as posted in common areas and on the employer's website.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will strengthen the existing labor laws regarding lactation accommodations, ensuring that all employers provide appropriate facilities for nursing employees. It will also require employers to be proactive in informing employees of their rights, potentially leading to improved workplace conditions for nursing mothers across New York State. The bill aims to promote a more supportive work environment for breastfeeding employees, which may influence workplace policies statewide.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A03998 appears to be generally supportive, as it aligns with broader efforts to promote workplace equality and support for nursing mothers. However, there may be concerns from some employers regarding the potential costs and logistical challenges of implementing these requirements, which could lead to discussions about the feasibility of compliance.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from employers who argue that the requirements could impose undue hardship due to costs or space limitations. Conversely, advocates for nursing mothers emphasize the importance of providing adequate support and facilities for breastfeeding employees, arguing that such measures are essential for public health and gender equality in the workplace.

Companion Bills

NY S08667

Same As Relates to employee access to lactation rooms in the workplace; requires that employers post written policies regarding the rights of nursing employees.

Previously Filed As

NY S08667

Relates to employee access to lactation rooms in the workplace; requires that employers post written policies regarding the rights of nursing employees.

NY HB49

Employment; employers required to provide location and break time for employees to express breast milk

NY HB290

Employment; employers required to provide location and break time for employees to express breast milk

NY HB21

Employment; requiring employers to provide reasonable break time and location for employees to express breast milk.

NY HB1524

AN ACT Relating to ensuring compliance with and enforcement of certain workplace standards and requirements applicable to employers of isolated employees;

NY S2502

Protects bullying/psychological abuse in workplace inflicted upon employees by employers/co-employees/provides civil remedies to affected employees/fines against employers/imprisonment/fines against co-employees.

NY H8505

Protects bullying/psychological abuse in workplace inflicted upon employees by employers/co-employees/provides civil remedies to affected employees/fines against employers/imprisonment/fines against co-employees.

NY S0959

Protects bullying/psychological abuse in workplace inflicted upon employees by employers/co-employees/provides civil remedies to affected employees/fines against employers/imprisonment/fines against co-employees.

NY HB3880

Relating to nursing rooms provided by public employers.

NY S1698

Notice Requirements for Certain Employers to their Employees

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.