BILL NUMBER: S9443
SPONSOR: GONZALEZ
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the civil service law, in relation to establishing a
four-day workweek pilot program for state employees
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
The purpose of this legislation is to establish a four-day workweek
pilot program for state employees to assess the feasibility and benefits
of a shortened workweek while maintaining work hours and pay.
 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
Section 1 Amends the civil service law by adding a new section 159-e,
establishing a four-day workweek pilot program.
Section 2 Sets the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
The modern workforce has been steadily evolving, and a growing body of
research indicates that shorter workweeks can improve employee produc-
tivity, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. This pilot program
provides the state of New York with the opportunity to assess these
potential benefits in a controlled manner for its public employees. Not
only can a reduced workweek foster a healthier work-life balance, but it
may also help to retain talented state employees and reduce vacancy
rates in key agencies.
Countries such as Iceland and companies across the United States have
reported positive outcomes from four-day workweek trials, including
increased employee retention, lower rates of absenteeism, and improved
mental health. By implementing a pilot program, New York can lead by
example and set the foundation for a more efficient and satisfied work-
force. The inclusion of bargaining representatives in negotiations
ensures that the rights of unionized workers are fully respected, and
that any transition will be equitable and well-considered.
The resulting analysis will offer valuable insights into the long-term
feasibility of this initiative, making New York a potential leader in
labor innovation within the public sector.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
There will be initial administrative costs related to identifying eligi-
ble state agencies and functions, as well as implementing the pilot.
However, these costs are expected to be offset by potential improvements
in employee retention and reduced absenteeism, which may lead to long-
teim savings.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on October 1, 2026.