ALBANY, N.Y. (NCC News) — Gov. Kathy Hochul has unveiled New York’s inaugural Youth Workers Bill of Rights, which she says is designed to enhance protections for the state’s youngest employees.
This document is meant to inform young workers about their rights, including the minimum wage, workplace safety, and the right to file complaints without retaliation. Every young worker in New York should receive a copy of the Bill of Rights upon obtaining their working papers, providing them with crucial knowledge from the start of their employment journey.
Developed collaboratively by the New York State Department of Labor in partnership with the New York State Education Department, the Bill of Rights “guarantees” comprehensive coverage of essential rights and protections for young workers. The initiative is meant to strengthen New York’s efforts to combat child labor violations and labor trafficking.
Businesses are urged to uphold their commitment to prioritize the safety and well-being of minors in the workplace through the Protect Youth Workers Pledge initiated in 2023.
The Bill of Rights can be referenced by young workers through NYSDOL’s online hub, offering a resource for information on labor rights and protections.
