New York Senate Bill S06629

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/19/25
• Refer: 3/19/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Prohibits any employer, labor organization, employment agency or licensing agency, or employees or agents thereof, to seek high school, college or graduate program graduation dates from a prospective employee for an interview or as a condition for employment.

Summary

Bill S06629 seeks to amend the executive law in New York by prohibiting employers, labor organizations, employment agencies, and licensing agencies from asking prospective employees about their graduation dates from high school, college, or graduate programs. The intent of the bill is to eliminate age discrimination in hiring practices, as graduation dates can be used to infer a candidate's age, potentially leading to bias against older applicants or those who may have taken non-traditional paths to education. The bill introduces a new subdivision to Section 296 of the executive law, classifying the act of seeking graduation dates as an unlawful discriminatory practice. This change aims to foster a more equitable hiring process by ensuring that candidates are evaluated based on their skills and qualifications rather than their educational timelines, which may not accurately reflect their capabilities or experiences. If enacted, this legislation would impact various stakeholders, including employers who would need to revise their hiring practices and policies to comply with the new law. It would also affect job seekers, particularly older individuals or those with non-linear educational backgrounds, by providing them with a more level playing field in the job market. The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be supportive among advocates for fair employment practices, as it addresses concerns about age discrimination. However, there may be some contention among employers who argue that graduation dates can provide useful context regarding a candidate's educational background and qualifications. Overall, the bill reflects a growing trend towards inclusivity and fairness in employment practices.

Impact

The passage of Bill S06629 would amend New York's executive law to prohibit the practice of asking for graduation dates during the hiring process. This change would require employers and related organizations to adjust their recruitment and interview processes, ensuring that they do not inquire about graduation dates. The law aims to protect job applicants from potential age discrimination and promote a more equitable assessment of candidates based on their skills and experiences rather than their educational timelines.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around Bill S06629 is largely positive among advocates for anti-discrimination measures in employment. Supporters believe that the bill will help reduce age bias and create a more inclusive job market. However, there may be some resistance from employers who feel that graduation dates are relevant information that can help assess a candidate's qualifications.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential impact on employers' ability to evaluate candidates effectively. Some employers may argue that graduation dates provide important context about a candidate's educational journey and readiness for the job. On the other hand, advocates for the bill assert that such inquiries can lead to age discrimination and that skills and qualifications should be the primary focus in hiring decisions.