Authorizes the commissioner of labor and the workers' compensation board to issue stop-work orders; establishes procedure for the issuance of such orders; establishes penalties for failure to comply with such orders.
Summary
Bill S00162, known as the "Stop Workplace Abuse Today (SWAT) Act," amends New York's labor law and workers' compensation law to authorize the commissioner of labor and the workers' compensation board to issue stop-work orders against employers found to be in violation of wage payment laws or lacking workers' compensation coverage. The bill outlines the process for issuing these orders, including notification requirements and the rights of employers to contest such orders. Employers who fail to comply with a stop-work order may face daily penalties ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 until compliance is achieved.
Impact
The bill significantly impacts state labor laws by introducing a mechanism for immediate enforcement against employers who violate wage and workers' compensation laws. It allows for stop-work orders to be issued not only for direct violations but also in cases where local, city, or federal labor violations are reported. This creates a more stringent regulatory environment for employers and aims to enhance worker protections by ensuring compliance with existing labor standards.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding Bill S00162 appears to be supportive among labor advocates who view it as a necessary step to protect workers from exploitation and unsafe working conditions. However, there may be concerns from business groups regarding the potential for overreach and the economic impact of such enforcement measures on small businesses.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the potential burden on employers, particularly small businesses, who may struggle to comply with the new requirements and face significant penalties. Critics may argue that the bill could lead to excessive regulatory scrutiny and operational disruptions. Supporters, on the other hand, emphasize the importance of holding employers accountable for labor law violations to protect workers' rights.
Same As
Authorizes the commissioner of labor and the workers' compensation board to issue stop-work orders; establishes procedure for the issuance of such orders; establishes penalties for failure to comply with such orders.
Authorizes the commissioner of labor and the workers' compensation board to issue stop-work orders; establishes procedure for the issuance of such orders; establishes penalties for failure to comply with such orders.
Establishes a fraud assessment commission; directs the chair of the workers' compensation board, in consultation with the workers' compensation fraud inspector general and the fraud assessment commission, to establish an assessment for workers' compensation fraud investigations to fund the investigation and prosecution of workers' compensation fraud, willful failure to secure payment of workers' compensation, and failure to keep true and accurate records; establishes the workers' compensation fraud investigation fund in the joint custody of the chair of the workers' compensation board, the commissioner of labor, and the comptroller, which shall consist of monies received from the imposition of the assessment for workers' compensation fraud investigations.
Establishes a fraud assessment commission; directs the chair of the workers' compensation board, in consultation with the workers' compensation fraud inspector general and the fraud assessment commission, to establish an assessment for workers' compensation fraud investigations to fund the investigation and prosecution of workers' compensation fraud, willful failure to secure payment of workers' compensation, and failure to keep true and accurate records; establishes the workers' compensation fraud investigation fund in the joint custody of the chair of the workers' compensation board, the commissioner of labor, and the comptroller, which shall consist of monies received from the imposition of the assessment for workers' compensation fraud investigations.
Establishes procedures regarding orders of post-termination visitation and/or contact between a child and such child's parent and for modification of such orders.
Article V Convention; process for appointing commissioners and alternate commissioners to represent the State of Alabama at Article V Convention established