ARTICLE
Governor Kathy Hochul followed up on two items from the end of the 2022 Legislative session by signing Chapter Amendments to both Carlos’ Law (S1325/A1322) and the Contractor Registration Law (S838/A984). Carlos’ Law relates to crimes involving the death or serious physical injury of a worker and established higher fines for corporations that have committed such crimes. Fines can now be levied up to $500,00. Under the new legislation, a corporation and/or their agents is guilty of criminal corporate liability for the death or injury of a worker when it negligently, recklessly, intentionally, or knowingly causes the death or serious physical injury of its employees while they are on the job. This law is now in full force and effect. The Chapter Amendment for the Contractor Registration clarified provisions related to a registration system for contractors and subcontractors engaged in public work and covered projects. However, per the Department of Labor, the effective date of the registration requirement will be December 30, 2024. No contractors or subcontractors are required to register prior to that date. We await additional information and the full registration requirements from the NYSDOL.