New York DOL Clarifies Trapped at Work Act

The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) confirms that the Trapped at Work Act applies to new agreements, or new or amended terms in existing agreements, entered into on or after December 19, 2026. 

Truly voluntary repayment agreements that are separate from accepting or maintaining employment fall outside the Act’s prohibition. 

The guidance clarifies permissible repayment triggers, educational expenses, misconduct, and optional advances of performance-based payments and paid leave.

Littler:
New York Department of Labor Issues Guidance on “Trapped at Work Act”