The economic realities of the entire working relationship are looked at to decide whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor. The new regulations are effective January 1, 2015.These FAQs are intended to help workers, families and employers better understand the new regulations. 4.2 The Employee is entitled to a rest and meal break of at least 30 minutes after 5 hours of work. 5.0 Protection of Wages and Deductions. The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) created this overview of important City, State, and federal laws so you know your rights at work. Under the paid time off law, employees in New York State accrue sick and safe leave at the rate of one hour off for every thirty hours worked. Under the heading "Maximum hours", §207 states that time and a half pay must be given to employees working more than 40 hours in a week. The minimum payment is calculated as three times the national minimum hourly rate of pay or three times the minimum hourly rate of pay set out in an Employment. Hours, wages and supplements. 1.