Remote, But Not Removed

BD

Historically, New York’s workers' compensation laws have taken a notably restrictive view on mental health, limiting coverage predominantly to first responders experiencing trauma tied to specific, extraordinary emergencies.

For most employees, stress—even when extreme or debilitating—rarely qualified under the stringent standards of previous statutes.

But as of January 1, 2025, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed groundbreaking legislation that has dramatically altered that landscape.

This landmark change significantly expands coverage, allowing any employee across the state—including those working remotely—to pursue claims for mental injuries stemming from "extraordinary work-related stress."

A Landmark Expansion for New York Workers

Perhaps the most significant aspect of this change is the removal of the requirement that claimants show their work-related stress exceeded what is typically expected in their role or industry.

Previously, even first responders—arguably some of the most stress-exposed employees—had to prove their experiences surpassed the ordinary stresses inherent to their duties. This high evidentiary bar meant many claims were quickly dismissed, despite very real impacts on mental health.

With the removal of this constraint, New York’s law now places emphasis squarely on the nature and severity of stress rather than artificially comparing experiences to an arbitrary baseline.

The legislation also broadens eligibility beyond first...

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