February 24, 2026
NYC Private-Sector Security Guards: New Wage & Benefits Law
In December 2025, the NYC Council overrode former Mayor Adams’ veto and enacted the Aland Etienne Safety & Security Act, establishing citywide minimum standards for wages, paid time off, and fringe benefits for private-sector security guards.
The Act will require private employers to provide registered security guards with the same compensation and benefits that NYC provides to security guards under its public building service contracts.
Who’s covered: Private employers who employ registered security guards in NYC, and security guards who are registered with the NYS Department of State.
Wages: Beginning January 1, 2027, employers must pay registered security guards at least the hourly rate required under NYC public building service contracts.
Paid Time Off: Beginning January 1, 2028, employers must provide registered security guards with paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave that meet or exceed the paid time off (PTO) provided under NYC public building service contracts.
Fringe Benefits: Beginning January 1, 2029, employers must provide or fund fringe benefits, including health coverage, retirement benefits, or equivalent cash benefits, at the same level as provided under NYC public building service contracts.
Effective Date: The law will take effect on July 28, 2026, giving employers time to prepare for the upcoming changes. For security guards covered by a valid collective bargaining agreement (CBA) or other designated agreement, the law will apply on the termination date of that agreement, provided the CBA or agreement has a set termination date. This ensures the law does not conflict with existing negotiated agreements. For employers of security guards in NYC, these new requirements represent a significant shift in wages, paid time off, and benefits. We recommend seeking guidance from employment attorneys Chaim Book at cbook@booklawllp.com, Sheryl Galler at sgaller@booklawllp.com, Rebecca Nathanson at rnathanson@booklawllp.com, or Charlotte Pramer at cpramer@booklawllp.com to ensure your policies and practices are fully compliant for security guards.
