The bill passed 49-0 and requires employers who hire domestic workers through employment agencies to sign statements outlining the employee's rights and the employer's responsibilities (see also WIT for May 14, 2003). Employment agencies that violate the law would be subject to a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment of up to one year. One critic of the legislation claims that, because only a small percentage of domestic workers are placed by employment agencies, it would do little to help domestic workers. The council also approved a resolution asking that employers abide by guidelines recommended by Domestic Workers United, covering issues such as sick time, personal days, vacation, and notice of dismissal or leaving.
See "New Protections for Nannies Are Approved by Council", Steven Greenhouse, The New York Times, May 14, 2003