Establishes a reasonable accommodation reimbursement grant program under which eligible employers may request a grant for reimbursement of expenses made for reasonable accommodations for applicants or employees with a disability; establishes a reasonable accommodation reimbursement fund for payment of such grants; makes an appropriation of $5,000,000 for such program.
Impact
The bill will reshape aspects of the labor law in New York by defining specific terms such as 'reasonable accommodation' and 'eligible employers', thereby providing a clearer framework for compliance and support. This initiative not only underscores the state's commitment to inclusion but also empowers smaller employers with financial means to adjust their practices in line with accessibility requirements. Additionally, the maximum reimbursement cap of $30,000 per employer annually is aimed at meeting the needs of diverse businesses while ensuring the fund's longevity.
Summary
Bill S08674 aims to establish a reasonable accommodation reimbursement grant program intended to financially assist eligible employers in New York state for expenses incurred while providing reasonable accommodations to disabled applicants or employees. The proposed legislation includes a special fund created specifically for reimbursing these costs, highlighting the state's commitment to supporting the employment of individuals with disabilities. A total of $5 million has been appropriated to facilitate this program, ensuring resources are available to cover qualified expenses.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support due to its positive implications for employees with disabilities, some concerns have been raised regarding fund management and the potential for funding depletion. The program’s criteria for eligible employers may also spark debate, particularly concerning the threshold of employees and revenue limits that define what constitutes a small business. Furthermore, the provision allowing for the use of 20% of funds for administration and marketing has been met with scrutiny amid calls for maximizing direct support to employers. Overall, the reception of S08674 reflects broader discussions on disability rights and employer responsibilities in labor markets.
Same As
Establishes a reasonable accommodation reimbursement grant program under which eligible employers may request a grant for reimbursement of expenses made for reasonable accommodations for applicants or employees with a disability; establishes a reasonable accommodation reimbursement fund for payment of such grants; makes an appropriation of $5,000,000 for such program.
Establishes a reasonable accommodation reimbursement grant program under which eligible employers may request a grant for reimbursement of expenses made for reasonable accommodations for applicants or employees with a disability; establishes a reasonable accommodation reimbursement fund for payment of such grants; makes an appropriation of $5,000,000 for such program.
Requires employment entities to engage in cooperative dialogue with persons requesting reasonable accommodations, or who such employment entities reasonably should have known may require such reasonable accommodations, due to disability, religion, or status as a victim of domestic violence.
A bill for an act requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees based on pregnancy or childbirth and making penalties applicable.
A bill for an act requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees based on pregnancy or childbirth and providing civil penalties.