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Senate backs protections for employees who participate in workplace-violence investigations
Summary
The Senate approved a bill protecting employees who participate in workplace‑violence investigations from wage reductions or withholding and enhancing certain labor protections, with broad union support.
The New York State Senate passed legislation sponsored by Senator Ryan aimed at protecting workers who participate in workplace‑violence investigations and preventing financial penalties tied to such participation.
Senator Ryan said the bill upholds the principle that “no worker should face financial penalties for standing up for workplace safety” and stressed support from labor partners including the New York State AFL‑CIO, CSEA, AFSCME, CWA and police unions.
The measure drew a procedural appeal on an unrelated point: Senator Steck asked the chair to reconsider a ruling about an amendment tied to prison policy (a separate HALT Act repeal attempt), but the ruling of the chair was sustained and floor consideration proceeded on Senator Ryan’s bill.
Senator Ryan and supporters framed the bill as both a workplace‑safety and workers‑rights measure that will protect employees who assist in investigations from retaliation and from reductions or withholding of wages; the bill language, as read on the floor, takes effect immediately.
The Senate adopted the bill on the floor. Senator Ryan recorded his support in remarks explaining the bill’s purpose; the transcript records broad union and law‑enforcement backing cited by the sponsor.
