NY S09840

Increases short-term disability benefits for the first 12 weeks of disability beginning January 1, 2026, with graduated increases: 55% of average weekly wage (capped at 50% of state average) in 2026, 60% in 2027, 67% in 2028, and 67% thereafter.

Reduces disability benefits for weeks 13-26 to 30% of average weekly wage (capped at 30% of state average) beginning January 1, 2026, with discretion for the Workers' Compensation Board chair to increase this amount up to 67% of state average wage.

Establishes minimum weekly benefit of $100 for disability benefits beginning January 1, 2026, or full wages if employee earns less than $100 per week.

Increases maximum employee contribution for disability benefits to $2.20 per week beginning January 1, 2026, and caps contributions at 40% of average combined employee and employer contributions beginning January 1, 2029.

Adds coverage for six weeks of paid leave following stillbirth between January 1, 2025 and January 1, 2029, and permits collective bargaining agreements to waive new benefit increases through January 1, 2029.