HR Professionals Lead the Way at SHRM’s 2025 New York State Advocacy Day

On Feb. 25, HR professionals from across New York gathered at the state Capitol in Albany for SHRM’s 2025 New York State Advocacy Day, a pivotal event dedicated to advancing workplace policies that support employees and employers alike. With a focus on artificial intelligence regulation, noncompete agreements, and expanding access to untapped talent pools, SHRM members met with legislators, key staff, and policymakers to ensure that HR’s voice plays a central role in shaping the future of work in New York.

SHRM members tackled some of the most pressing workplace policy issues impacting New York’s workers and workplaces, including:

• Promoting Responsible AI Adoption & Workforce Transformation: With state Senate Bill 1169 pending, HR professionals addressed concerns about AI-driven employment decisions, algorithmic bias, and compliance burdens for employers. SHRM advocates for thoughtful AI regulation that fosters innovation while ensuring fairness, transparency, and workforce stability. Discussions emphasized the need for:
  • Clear guidelines on AI use in hiring and employment decisions.
  • Workforce upskilling initiatives to help employees adapt to AI-driven changes.
  • Balanced regulations that promote ethical AI adoption without stifling innovation.
    
    
• Ensuring Fair Noncompete Policies: With state Senate Bill 4641A proposing severe restrictions on noncompete agreements, SHRM urged lawmakers to consider a balanced approach that protects worker mobility while preserving business interests. SHRM advocates for:
  • Allowing parties to consent to well-structured noncompete agreements that are reasonable and appropriately tailored.
  • A fair salary threshold that reflects regional economic differences across New York.
  • Targeted protections that prevent abuse while allowing businesses to safeguard trade secrets.
    
    
• Supporting Untapped Pools of Talent: New York’s labor shortage remains a challenge, with more job openings than available workers. SHRM members advocated for policies that help veterans, individuals with disabilities, military spouses, formerly incarcerated individuals, and opportunity youth access meaningful employment opportunities. Key recommendations included:
  
  • Support for employer-driven workforce development programs.
  • Legislation that enables more inclusive hiring practices.
  • Stronger collaboration between businesses and policymakers to remove employment barriers.

With workplace policies evolving rapidly, HR professionals must remain engaged year-round. Whether by connecting with policymakers, participating in SHRM’s advocacy initiatives, or staying informed through SHRM’s resources, every HR professional can make an impact. Together, we are strengthening workplaces, supporting employees, and shaping policies that build a better world.

If your SHRM affiliate is interested in hosting a State Advocacy Day, please reach out to SHRM Government Affairs at governmentaffairs@shrm.org for guidance and support in hosting an impactful advocacy event in your state.