On April 22, 2020, the New York City Council introduced a series of bills in response to the COVID-19 crisis that is ravaging the city. In addition to proposals in this legislative package affecting the real estate industry and small businesses, is a series of bills the Council has dubbed the “NYC Essential Workers Bill of Rights.” These bills would require premiums for non-salaried essential employees at large companies, prohibit firing essential workers without just cause, and mandate paid sick leave for gig workers. In particular, the “Just Cause Discharge from Employment” portion would immediately become one of the most radical and consequential pieces of employment legislation enacted in the 21st century, eliminating at-will employment for a large component of New York City’s workforce.
Home > State Law Articles > New York > General (NY) > Proposed NYC Essential Workers Bill of Rights Provides Just Cause Termination and Premium Pay for Essential Workers, Sick Leave for Independent Contractors