New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A10297

Introduced
2/20/26  

Caption

Requires employers to provide a leave of absence of at least four hours for every 12 month period for an employee to use for colon cancer screenings.

Impact

If enacted, A10297 would amend existing labor laws to formalize the provision of health-related leave specifically for colon cancer screenings. Employers would be required to adopt this policy, creating a standardized approach toward health-related absences that could lead to improved overall wellbeing among the workforce. By ensuring that employees can take time off for screenings without fear of retaliation, this bill may contribute to a culture that prioritizes preventive healthcare in the workplace.

Summary

A10297 is a legislative bill introduced in the New York Assembly on February 20, 2026, which mandates that employers provide a leave of absence for colon cancer screenings. Specifically, the bill stipulates that every employee is entitled to a leave of at least four hours within any twelve-month period for this purpose. This initiative aims to promote health awareness and preventative care regarding colon cancer, which remains a significant health issue affecting many individuals. The bill highlights the importance of early detection and regular screening as a measure to improve public health outcomes.

Contention

While the bill appears to have the support of health advocates who recognize the necessity of enhancing access to cancer screenings, potential points of contention may arise regarding the implications for employers. Some employers might express concerns over the administrative burden associated with tracking and managing this leave, as well as the impact it could have on workforce productivity. Additionally, discussions may emerge regarding the adequacy of existing leave provisions and whether this new requirement is necessary given other employee benefits already provided.

Notable_points

The bill emphasizes that any leave granted for colon cancer screenings does not interfere with other leave rights an employee may have under existing laws, reinforcing the notion that healthcare-related absences should be protected. By establishing clear guidelines for the implementation of this leave policy, the bill aims to facilitate both compliance by employers and protection for employees seeking necessary health interventions.

Companion Bills

NY S09246

Same As Requires employers to provide a leave of absence of at least four hours for every 12 month period for an employee to use for colon cancer screenings.

Previously Filed As

NY S09246

Requires employers to provide a leave of absence of at least four hours for every 12 month period for an employee to use for colon cancer screenings.

NY S09245

Requires employers to provide a leave of absence of at least four hours for every 12 month period for an employee to use for preventative health care measures.

NY A10295

Requires employers to provide a leave of absence of at least four hours for every 12 month period for an employee to use for preventative health care measures.

NY S09247

Requires employers to provide leave of absence of at least five days for every 12 month period for an employee to use for menopause symptoms; requires the commissioner of labor, in consultation with the commissioner of health, to develop workplace guidance relating to menopause.

NY A10296

Requires employers to provide leave of absence of at least five days for every 12 month period for an employee to use for menopause symptoms; requires the commissioner of labor, in consultation with the commissioner of health, to develop workplace guidance relating to menopause.

NY A09403

Exempts an employer that is required by contract to provide services to another entity by means of having one or more of its employees work at the facilities of the other entity for the entire daily work period and that must pay an additional employee to provide substitute services in the absence of the original contracted-for employee from the requirement to provide paid sick leave.

NY S09812

Relates to providing more predictable and stable schedules for employees in low-wage occupations; provides that an employer shall pay an employee for at least 4 hours at the basic minimum hourly wage for each day an employee reports for work as instructed but is given less than four hours of work.

NY A1893

Modifies laws regarding compensation and leaves of absence for certain public employees who served in the military; requires public employers follow certain policies and procedures for leaves of absence.

NY S1587

Modifies laws regarding compensation and leaves of absence for certain public employees who served in the military; requires public employers follow certain policies and procedures for leaves of absence.

NY A11198

Requires employers to pay employees accrued but unused vacation, paid time off, or other paid leave provided upon termination, resignation, retirement or other separation from employment.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.