New York – Today, State Senator Daniel Squadron and Assemblywoman Nily Rozic announced passage of their bill to increase flexible working arrangements by requiring regular feasibility studies with an active focus on ways to expand flexible schedules within state agencies (S7324/A9870). The bill passed the Senate and Assembly with bipartisan support and will now be sent to the Governor for approval.

The Squadron/Rozic bill requires the President of the Civil Service Commission to annually report on flexible work schedules in state agencies, with an emphasis on ways to expand eligible positions, and incorporate more flexible arrangements within state agencies. Flexible work schedules aim to increase work-life balance, provide personal and family-related flexibility, and help reduce rush-hour commuting congestion.

“Flexible work arrangements allow employees to better balance work, family, and personal commitments, and employers to better match staff schedules with their needs” said State Senator Daniel Squadron. “This bill is one step in providing the kind of flexibility that increases quality of life and productivity. I thank Assemblywoman Rozic and our colleagues, and urge the Governor to sign this bill into law.”

“The demand for flexible scheduling is increasing and this legislation takes the next steps to determine the most effective way to implement policies the benefit both employers and employees. I am proud to see us moving in a direction that responds to changing workforce dynamics so that those unable to achieve work-life balance may find themselves on a path towards growth, stability, and economic security,” said Assemblywoman Nily Rozic.

“A Better Balance applauds Senator Squadron and Assemblywoman Rozic and the New York legislature for taking a first step toward increasing flexibility for state workers. All those with family responsibilities will benefit from this recognition of the importance of alternative working arrangements. We look forward to working together on this important issue,” said Sherry Leiwant, Co-President, A Better Balance.

“Women’s City Club of New York applauds State Senator Squadron and Assemblymember Rozic for their commitment to securing flexible work arrangements for all New Yorkers,” said Jacqueline Ebanks, Women’s City Club of New York’s Executive Director, and “urges the Governor to sign this bill as a critical first step in developing legislation to advance work-life balance for New Yorkers,” she continued.

The Squadron-chaired Senate Minority Conference Policy Group’s white paper Pre-Natal to Pre-K: Supporting New York’s Young Families