New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01893

Introduced
1/14/25  
Refer
1/14/25  

Caption

Establishes a civil cause of action for employees who are subjected to an abusive work environment; provides employers shall be vicariously liable for such work environment.

Summary

Bill S01893, known as the New York Workplace Bullying Prevention Act, aims to establish a legal framework to address workplace bullying by creating a civil cause of action for employees subjected to abusive work environments. The bill defines 'abusive conduct' and outlines the responsibilities of both employers and employees in preventing and addressing such behavior. It also specifies the legal remedies available to employees who suffer from psychological or physical harm due to workplace bullying, including compensation for lost wages and emotional distress. The bill emphasizes the importance of a healthy work environment for the overall well-being of employees and the economic health of the state.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend the New York labor law to include provisions specifically addressing workplace bullying, which is not currently covered under existing harassment laws. It would hold employers vicariously liable for abusive conduct by their employees, thereby encouraging employers to implement preventive measures and respond effectively to complaints. The bill also provides a clear legal pathway for employees to seek redress for harm caused by bullying, potentially leading to increased accountability for workplace behavior and a shift in workplace culture towards greater respect and professionalism.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S01893 appears to be generally supportive among advocates for employee rights and workplace safety, as it addresses a significant gap in current labor laws regarding non-discriminatory harassment. However, there may be concerns from some employers regarding the potential for increased liability and the challenges of proving or disproving claims of bullying in the workplace. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions suggests that the bill is still in the early stages of consideration.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the definitions of 'abusive conduct' and 'abusive work environment,' as well as the implications of employer liability. Some employers may argue that the bill could lead to frivolous lawsuits or an increase in litigation costs, while advocates for the bill may emphasize the need for stronger protections for employees against bullying that is not currently addressed by existing laws. The balance between protecting employees and ensuring fair treatment of employers is likely to be a key area of debate.

Companion Bills

NY A03482

Same As Establishes a civil cause of action for employees who are subjected to an abusive work environment; provides employers shall be vicariously liable for such work environment.

Previously Filed As

NY S01753

Establishes a civil cause of action for employees who are subjected to an abusive work environment; employers shall be vicariously liable for such work environment.

NY A03330

Establishes a civil cause of action for employees who are subjected to an abusive work environment; employers shall be vicariously liable for such work environment.

NY A03482

Establishes a civil cause of action for employees who are subjected to an abusive work environment; provides employers shall be vicariously liable for such work environment.

NY H5132

Prohibits psychological abuse in the workplace by employers or co-workers, ensuring a safe environment for employees, provides protection, civil remedies, and penalties for employers based on revenue.

NY H7121

Prohibits psychological abuse in the workplace by employers or co-workers, ensuring a safe environment for employees, provides protection, civil remedies, and penalties for employers based on revenue.

NY SB1250

Providing for legal protections from abusive work environments and for remedies.

NY SB460

Prohibiting abusive work environments and creating a cause of action. (FE)

NY AB476

Prohibiting abusive work environments and creating a cause of action. (FE)

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.

Similar Bills

CA SB238

An act to add Part 5.

HI HB2455

Relating To Employment Practices.

HI SB3186

Relating To Employment Practices.

OR SB537

Relating to violence in health care settings.

CA AB1331

An act to add Part 5.

WA HB1162

Concerning workplace violence in health care settings.

KY HB713

AN ACT relating to workplace violence against health care professionals.

IL SB0223

CD CORR-DOC SAFETY COMMITTEE