Governor Cuomo Signs New York State Budget Anti-Harassment Provisions Into Law

On April 12, 2018, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law the New York State Budget, which includes several significant measures directed at both private and government employers regarding sexual harassment in the workplace.

New York will join California, Connecticut, and Maine in state mandated sexual harassment training effective October 9, 2018. Employers are required to distribute a written anti-harassment policy in the workplace and conduct annual anti-harassment training for all employees.

The training program must be interactive and will need to include at least the following:

1. An explanation of sexual harassment consistent with guidance issued by New York State;

2. Examples of conduct that would constitute unlawful sexual harassment;

3. Information about the federal and New York State statutory protections against sexual harassment and the remedies available to victims of sexual harassment; and

4. Information concerning employees’ rights of redress and the forums available to them for adjudicating complaints.

New York State will develop a model sexual harassment prevention training program, and employers will be required to either use that model training program or establish their own training program that meets or exceeds the new law’s requirements.

Paylocity will continue to monitor this requirement and will alert you as new guidance becomes available.

Thank you for choosing Paylocity as your Payroll Tax partner. Should you have any questions please contact your Paylocity Account Manager.

This information is provided as a courtesy, may change and is not intended as legal or tax guidance. Employers with questions or concerns outside the scope of a Payroll Service Provider are encouraged to seek the advice of a qualified CPA, Tax Attorney or Advisor.