NY A10561

Increases short-term disability benefits starting January 1, 2026, with weekly benefits of 55% of average weekly wage (capped at 50% of state average) for the first 12 weeks, escalating to 60% (capped at 55%) in 2027 and 67% (capped at 60%) in 2028 and beyond.

Reduces weekly benefit for weeks 13-26 of disability to 30% of average weekly wage (capped at 30% of state average) starting January 1, 2026, with discretion for the Workers' Compensation Board chair to increase this rate in consultation with the superintendent of financial services.

Caps employee contributions for disability benefits at $2.20 per week beginning January 1, 2026, and limits contributions to 40% of the average combined employee-employer contributions beginning January 1, 2029.

Allows stillbirth leave benefits as family leave from January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2028 for the six weeks immediately following a stillbirth.

Permits collective bargaining agreements to waive enhanced disability benefits for covered employers between January 1, 2026 and January 1, 2029, provided the agreement explicitly references this provision and is agreed to by the labor organization.