Authorizes state and municipal employees to be paid for up to 49 days of military deployment each year

Title of bill

An act to amend the labor law, in relation to allowing state, county and municipal employees to be compensated for up to 49 days of military deployment per year

Purpose

This bill would allow 49 days of leave for all state employees who are members of the reserves, armed forces or National Guard to fulfill their two week commitment without having to take vacation time.

Summary of specific provisions

This bill would amend the Labor Law by adding a new section 194-a to create pay allowances for time spent on military duty.

All state employees who must fulfill their two week commitment in the reserves, armed forces or National Guard shall receive full pay. Any county or municipality may opt into this provision.

Justification

Since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1989 U.S. threats have become more diverse and U.S. military deployments have become more frequent. Currently, the U.S. military finds itself sustaining troop concentrations in Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere while maintaining trained and ready forces at home.

It is more difficult to attract men and women to serve their country when they learn that in some cases they may have to forfeit vacation, personal, or credit time to fulfill their two week commitment. This bill would authorize them to have up to 49 days in the event of their deployment.

Legislative history

2008 - S.3806 - Passed Senate (62-0)

Fiscal implications

Determined pursuant to local option.

Effective date

This act would take effect immediately.