The New York City Earned Safe and Sick Time Act (“ESSTA”) is expanding. On October 25, 2025, the ESSTA was amended to provide additional benefits to employees. These amendments go into effect on February 22, 2026, and will require covered New York City employers to adjust practices and leave policies in several key areas, including: (i) employers must grant an additional 32 hours of unpaid leave to new employees upon hire and to all employees at the beginning of each benefit year; and (ii) employers must comply with a broader range of reasons for which employees can use time under ESSTA.
