New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01220

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Establishes it shall be an unlawful discriminatory practice for any prospective employer to make an inquiry about, or to act upon adversely to the individual involved based upon, any criminal conviction of such individual unless such employer first makes a conditional offer of employment to such individual.

Summary

Bill S01220 aims to amend the correction law and executive law in New York to prohibit prospective employers from inquiring about or acting adversely based on an individual's criminal convictions unless a conditional offer of employment has been made. This legislation seeks to ensure that individuals with prior convictions are not unfairly discriminated against in the hiring process, thereby promoting their reintegration into society. The bill defines a 'direct relationship' between the criminal conduct and the job responsibilities, which must be established before any adverse action can be taken based on a criminal record.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will significantly alter the hiring practices of both public and private employers in New York by restricting their ability to consider criminal convictions unless a conditional job offer has been extended. This change is expected to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with criminal records, thereby potentially reducing recidivism rates and fostering a more inclusive workforce. The bill will also necessitate updates to existing hiring policies and practices to comply with the new regulations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S01220 appears to be supportive among advocates for criminal justice reform and those focused on reducing barriers to employment for individuals with criminal histories. However, there may be concerns from some employers regarding the potential risks associated with hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds, which could lead to discussions about public safety and liability.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between protecting the rights of individuals with criminal records and the concerns of employers about safety and liability. Some lawmakers and business groups may argue that the bill could hinder their ability to make informed hiring decisions, while advocates for the bill emphasize the importance of second chances and reducing discrimination against formerly incarcerated individuals.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S01423

Establishes it shall be an unlawful discriminatory practice for any prospective employer to make an inquiry about, or to act upon adversely to the individual involved based upon, any criminal conviction of such individual unless such employer first makes a conditional offer of employment to such individual.

NY A01330

Relates to unlawful discriminatory practices; requires employers to make a conditional offer of employment before inquiring about any criminal convictions of a prospective employee.

NY S05297

Relates to unlawful discriminatory practices; requires employers to make a conditional offer of employment before inquiring about any criminal convictions of a prospective employee.

NY H7768

Prohibits an employer, employment agency, labor organization, or employee, to commit any act declared to be an unlawful employment practice; individuals would be held personally liable for such conduct.

NY S3200

Prohibits an employer, employment agency, labor organization, or employee, to commit any act declared to be an unlawful employment practice; individuals would be held personally liable for such conduct.

NY HB1704

permitting public employees to bargain individually with public employers without any intervention.

NY S08036

Relates to liability for unlawful discriminatory practices based upon the conduct of an employee or agent; provides that an employer, licensing agency, employment agency, or labor organization shall be liable for an unlawful discriminatory practice based upon the conduct of an employee or agent where the employee or agent exercised managerial or supervisory responsibility or the conduct was carried out by a non-managerial or non-supervisory employee and such conduct was not stopped or corrected.

NY S06310

Prohibits unlawful hiring discrimination by employers and employment agencies based upon an individual's unemployment status including decisions with regard to hiring, compensation or the terms thereof, or conditions or privileges of employment.

NY HB20

To make it unlawful for a person to deny an individual full and equal enjoyment of public accommodations or for an employer to discriminate against an applicant or employee based upon the individual's weight or body size; state cause of action against an employer who does so created

NY HB1714

Employment of individuals who lawfully consume cannabis; protection; employment; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.