Scott Horton

Scott Horton has practiced labor and employment law in New York for over 20 years. He has represented approximately 500 employers, authored hundreds of articles and presentations, and wrote the book New York Management Law: The Practical Guide to Employment Law for Business Owners and Managers. Nothing on this blog constitutes legal advice. For legal advice specific to your situation, you should consult an attorney.
Diverse group of business professionals reviewing DEI programs and employment practices

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has made DEI programs a significant focus of its current enforcement agenda. Its June 2026 National Enforcement Plan identifies several practices for scrutiny, including demographic quotas, restricted internships and mentoring programs, diverse candidate-slate requirements, and compensation incentives tied to workforce demographics. The priority shift does not make every diversity-related initiative … Read more

Workplace shift schedule, time clock, and employees illustrating holiday pay for alternative work schedules

Holiday pay seems like a simple employee benefit. An employer identifies several paid holidays, closes for the day, and pays employees as though they had worked. But the policy becomes more complicated when the workplace does not close or when employees work schedules other than five 8-hour days. Consider an employer that operates every day … Read more

Employee receiving personnel file documents from an employer representative in an office setting.

As of May 19, 2026, the New York State Legislature has passed legislation to allow employees to obtain copies of their personnel files. If enacted, the legislation would impose significant new administrative obligations on both private and public employers across New York State. The bill (Senate Bill S3460 / Assembly Bill A2107) would add a … Read more