WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 5559

Relates to remedies for unlawful discharge or discrimination for the exercise of an employee's right to be absent from employment for jury duty

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brad Hoylman-Sigal and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 5559 protects employees from job loss or discrimination for taking leave for jury duty, ensuring they can fulfill civic duties without fear of repercussions.

REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 5559

Summary of Bill S 5559

Bill Overview

Bill Number: S 5559
Title: Relates to remedies for unlawful discharge or discrimination for the exercise of an employee's right to be absent from employment for jury duty
Status: Referred to Judiciary
Introduced: February 25, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 5559 is to strengthen protections for employees who are called to serve on jury duty. The bill aims to ensure that employees cannot be unlawfully discharged or discriminated against for exercising their right to be absent from work to fulfill their civic duty as jurors.

Key Provisions

  • Protection Against Discharge: The bill explicitly prohibits employers from terminating or discriminating against employees who take leave for jury duty.
  • Remedies for Violations: Employees who believe they have been unlawfully discharged or discriminated against will have access to specific remedies, which may include:
    • Reinstatement to their position
    • Compensation for lost wages
    • Legal fees and costs associated with pursuing a claim
  • Reporting Mechanism: The bill may establish a reporting mechanism for employees to report violations and seek redress.

Affected Parties

  • Employees: The bill primarily benefits employees who are summoned for jury duty, ensuring they can fulfill this obligation without fear of losing their job or facing discrimination.
  • Employers: Employers will need to adjust their policies and practices to comply with the new protections outlined in the bill.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 25, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Judiciary Committee.
  • March 11, 2025: The bill was reported for the first time.
  • March 12, 2025: The bill advanced to the second reading.
  • March 13, 2025: The bill advanced to the third reading.
  • March 20, 2025: The bill passed the Senate and was delivered to the Assembly, where it was again referred to the Judiciary Committee.

Related Legislation

Bill S 5559 has several related bills from prior sessions, including:
- A 116
- A 649
- A 718
- A 609
- A 408
- A 2527
- S 3351
- S 837
- S 3266
- A 2533 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill S 5559 seeks to enhance the legal protections for employees regarding jury duty, ensuring that civic responsibilities do not come at the cost of job security. As it moves through the legislative process, it will be essential to monitor its progress and any amendments that may arise.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.