In my years of service within the security industry, there's a common practice that I've experienced time and time again: "face-to-face relief." As a security officer, I'm bound to wait for my replacement before I can leave. This means that if my relief arrives late or not at all, I am required to stay on duty — sometimes for hours beyond my scheduled shift. It's not just an inconvenience; it's a disruption to my life. This practice often results in "mandatory holdovers," putting security officers in difficult positions where personal commitments must be constantly rescheduled or neglected.

Adding to this strain are last-minute schedule changes imposed by employers, including abrupt cuts to anticipated overtime hours or unexpected "turnaround" shifts with insufficient rest. This unpredictability is not only stressful but unfair and unsustainable as we strive to balance our professional and personal lives.

The New York Fair Workweek Law was enacted to promote stable and predictable scheduling for workers. Yet, security professionals like myself are excluded from its protections. It's time to rectify this oversight. By expanding this law to include security personnel (paid hourly), we can ensure more work-life balance and job security for thousands of dedicated officers.

Security officers play a vital role in ensuring the safety of individuals and properties across New York. Our contributions are invaluable and deserve recognition through fair labor practices and protections. Expanding the Fair Workweek Law to include security professionals is not just a step towards justice but a reflection of the essential work we provide.

Join us in urging New York legislators to take action. Let's make sure that security professionals receive the equitable treatment we rightfully deserve. Sign this petition to expand the New York Fair Workweek Law to include security personnel and help us bring positive change for those who watch over our communities every day.