New York Enacts Landmark Worker Protections in FY26 Budget: What RWDSU Members Need to Know

Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a series of historic reforms into law as part of New York State’s FY26 Enacted Budget—reforms that represent a major step forward for workers’ rights and economic stability across the state. These changes are especially significant for RWDSU members, who will benefit directly from new protections and long-overdue support measures.

One of the most impactful changes is the complete repayment of the $5.7 billion debt owed by the state’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) Trust Fund. The debt, which ballooned during the COVID-19 pandemic, had been placing undue strain on both workers and employers. By paying it off in full, New York State is ensuring long-term solvency for the UI system. This will help prevent future increases in employer contributions and allow the state to make additional improvements to the program.

Crucially, with the UI Trust Fund back in the black, the state is also raising the maximum weekly UI benefit for the first time in years—from $504 to $869 per week. This long-awaited increase brings New York more in line with neighboring states and reflects the reality of today’s economy, where workers face higher living costs and need stronger safety nets between jobs.

Another major improvement affects workers on strike. In 2020, legislation reduced the waiting period for striking workers to collect UI benefits from seven weeks to two. However, a one-week waiting period still applied to all workers, meaning striking workers effectively waited three weeks before receiving support. Under the new reforms, Governor Hochul has removed that extra week, reducing the total waiting period to just two weeks. This is a critical win for striking workers who deserve timely financial assistance while they stand strong on the picket line fighting for better conditions and fair treatment.

RWDSU celebrates these legislative wins, which reflect years of advocacy from workers and unions demanding better protections and support. These reforms will make a real difference in the lives of our members, ensuring stronger financial stability during periods of unemployment or labor action.

We encourage all RWDSU members and stewards to share this information in your shops and among your coworkers. Understanding your rights is the first step to protecting them—and now, more than ever, those rights are expanding in your favor.