New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A10981

Introduced
4/14/26  

Caption

Prohibits non-compete agreements for certain medical professionals

Impact

If enacted, A10981 will amend the labor law to declare any existing non-compete agreements between employers and covered health-related professionals as null and void. The bill provides legal avenues for affected professionals, empowering them to bring a civil action against employers who violate this prohibition. This change is expected to significantly impact employer-employee dynamics within the healthcare sector, fostering an environment where practitioners can freely transition between jobs without the fear of legal repercussions that could arise from outdated non-compete clauses.

Summary

Bill A10981 aims to prohibit non-compete agreements for certain healthcare professionals in New York. The legislation specifically targets a range of licensed medical practitioners, including physicians, physician assistants, nurses, and other health-related professionals. The objective is to prevent employers from imposing restrictions that would inhibit these professionals from pursuing their careers if they change employers, thereby promoting competition and access to healthcare services in the state.

Contention

The discussion around A10981 has sparked notable contention within legislative circles and the healthcare community. Proponents argue that such restrictions stifle professional mobility and ultimately harm patients by limiting their access to diverse healthcare providers. Conversely, some industry stakeholders believe non-compete agreements are essential for protecting investments in training and development made by healthcare institutions. Balancing the needs of medical professionals while safeguarding employers’ interests has proven to be a complex challenge in the ongoing debates surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

NY S09228

Same As Prohibits non-compete agreements for certain medical professionals; authorizes covered individuals to bring a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction against any employer or persons alleged to have violated such prohibition.

Previously Filed As

NY S09228

Prohibits non-compete agreements for certain medical professionals; authorizes covered individuals to bring a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction against any employer or persons alleged to have violated such prohibition.

NY A10023

Prohibits non-compete agreements and certain restrictive covenants; authorizes covered individuals to bring a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction against any employer or persons alleged to have violated such prohibition.

NY S09759

Prohibits non-compete agreements and certain restrictive covenants; authorizes covered individuals to bring a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction against any employer or persons alleged to have violated such prohibition.

NY A09515

Relates to requirements for medical professionals and health care facilities that provide medication to patients for medical aid in dying; extends the initial effectiveness of certain provisions relating thereto.

NY S08835

Relates to requirements for medical professionals and health care facilities that provide medication to patients for medical aid in dying; extends the initial effectiveness of certain provisions relating thereto.

NY S09275

Requires Medicaid to cover gender-affirming care regardless of federal funding; prohibits discriminatory practices by health care entities including hospitals, certain professionals, and insurers; requires insurance coverage for services or treatments for gender dysphoria or gender incongruence.

NY A08286

Prohibits participation in torture of incarcerated individuals by health professionals; prohibits a health care professional from engaging, assisting or planning the torture of an incarcerated individual; requires health care professionals to report torture.

NY S07865

Prohibits participation in torture of incarcerated individuals by health professionals; prohibits a health care professional from engaging, assisting or planning the torture of an incarcerated individual; requires health care professionals to report torture.

NY A06596

Requires Medicaid to cover gender-affirming care regardless of federal funding; prohibits discriminatory practices by health care entities including hospitals, certain professionals, and insurers; requires insurance coverage for services or treatments for gender dysphoria or gender incongruence.

NY S06377

Requires Medicaid to cover gender-affirming care regardless of federal funding; prohibits discriminatory practices by health care entities including hospitals, certain professionals, and insurers; requires insurance coverage for services or treatments for gender dysphoria or gender incongruence.

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