EMPLOYMENT LAW NEWS
New York Revises Workplace First Aid Requirements for Opioid Antagonists
By Dana Holle, GovDocs Counsel and Manager Employment Law and Compliance
March 3, 2026
New York’s AB 9453, now in effect, requires federally covered employers to include an FDA-approved opioid antagonist, such as naloxone, in workplace first aid kits and directs the Labor Commissioner to establish related training and compliance regulations. Employers should update first aid policies, ensure proper supply availability, and monitor forthcoming regulatory guidance.
Overview of AB 9453 and Workplace First Aid Requirements
On Feb. 13, 2026, Governor Kathy Hochul signed Assembly Bill 9453 (AB 9453), amending New York’s labor laws on first aid materials required in the workplace. Specifically, AB 9453 clarifies that employers who are federally mandated by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Act and any subsequent federal safety and health standards are to have an opioid antagonist in first aid supplies available to injured employees for use in first aid or emergency treatment at the workplace.
Expanded Definitions, Rulemaking Authority, and Protections
The bill also expands on the definitions of the law. Now, governmental agencies that are excluded under the definition of employer are described as “the state, any political subdivision of the state, a public authority or any other governmental agency or instrumentality thereof.”
AB 9453 also provides a new definition for opioid antagonist, so that it has the same meaning as the state’s public health law. Accordingly, “opioid antagonist” is defined as a “drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration that, when administered, negates or neutralizes in whole or in part the pharmacological effects of an opioid in the body.” This includes naloxone, often known as the brand name Narcan.
Further, AB 9453 also added a new requirement for the Commissioner of Labor to create regulations addressing the number of opioid antagonists needed in the workplace, training on the use of opioid antagonists, and any additional relevant requirements. The bill also provides protections for individuals voluntarily rendering first aid or emergency treatment.
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Employer Next Steps
AB 9453 is now in effect in New York. Employers should confirm that an opioid antagonist is available at each of their locations, update any first aid procedures and policies, and provide training on the new requirements. Finally, employers should continue to monitor for additional requirements through the Labor Commissioner’s office. For more information on workplace updates, subscribe to GovDocs’ Employment Law News.
