As you know, New York city’s amended Earned Safe and Sick Time Act, officially took effect on February 22, 2026, bringing with it expanded reasons for use of both paid and unpaid time off and the introduction of a new 32‑hour unpaid time off allotment.
In connection with these changes, the City recently released several updated materials that employers must now incorporate into their compliance efforts. Among the most significant is the revised Notice of Employee Rights, currently available in English, which must be provided to all existing employees no later than March 24, 2026, and to all new hires at the start of employment. The updated Notice must also be visibly posted in the workplace. The City has additionally refreshed its ESSTA website and issued amended FAQs that reflect the expanded reasons for use, clarify the immediate availability of the new unpaid time, and address how paid and unpaid banks interact.