Effective November 5, 2025, employers seeking to enter into a competitive contract with New York State as a bidder must implement a Gender-Based Violence and Workplace Policy. This requirement is mandated by New York State Finance Law § 139-m, which reinforces the obligation to provide a safe and supportive work environment. The certification is not required for contracts where competitive bidding is not mandated by law, unless the governing department, agency, or official chooses to require it.
Employer unable to certify compliance may still bid, but they must explicitly state this non-compliance and provide a detailed, signed explanation with their submission.
Compliance requirements for bidders:
- The bidder must have a written Gender-Based Violence and Workplace Policy that meets the requirements specified in Executive Law § 575 (11). The bidder must submit a certification with their competitive bid, attesting that they have implemented a written policy addressing gender-based violence and the workplace.
- The policy must be provided to all employees, directors, and board members of the bidding entity.
- Information regarding gender-based violence, including this poster, must be clearly displayed where employees can easily see and access it.
Posting Requirement
Covered employers must display the New York Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline Poster in a location accessible to all employees.
