NY A10553

Employees may bring civil actions against employers for violations of Labor Law Section 27-a subdivisions 6 and 10, with a three-year statute of limitations from the date of violation.

Courts may order appropriate relief including injunctions, payment of costs and reasonable attorneys' fees, rehiring or reinstatement with seniority restoration, front pay in lieu of reinstatement, and lost compensation and damages.

The statute of limitations is tolled from when an employee files a complaint with the commissioner or when the commissioner begins an investigation, whichever occurs first, until a final compliance order is issued or the investigation concludes.

Commissioner investigation is not required before filing a civil action and does not bar an employee from bringing suit.

The act takes effect immediately upon enactment.