Workplace Violence Prevention

Preventing Workplace Violence In Public Schools

To help prevent workplace violence in public schools, on September 6, 2023, the Governor signed legislation (S1746/A1120) amending the Workplace Violence Prevention Law (Section 27-b of Labor Law), extending coverage to elementary and secondary public education that was previously exempted. This was done by removing the exemption from the definition of “employer” in the law. The amendment of 12 NYCRR Part 800.6 has also been immediately authorized by the legislation. These changes will be effective 120 days (January 4, 2024) after becoming law.

As of January 4, 2024, covered public employers include public school districts, New York City public schools, Boards of Cooperative Education Services (BOCES), and County Vocational Education and Extension Boards. Based on guidance in the Workplace Violence Prevention Regulations, please refer to the timeline below regarding implementation deadlines:

(1) The Employer’s Policy Statement must be completed within 30 days of the law going into effect (February 3, 2024)

(2) The workplace risk evaluation and determination must be completed within 60 days of the law going into effect (March 4, 2024).

(3) The workplace violence prevention program must be completed within 75 days of the law going into effect (March 19, 2024).

(4) Employers must be in full compliance with the regulations within 120 days of the law going into effect (May 3, 2024).

For more information, please visit the Workplace Violence Prevention page NY state’s Department of Labor website.

Workplace Violence Prevention Resources