This pamphlet is intended to provide Employers and Employees with general information about their employment rights and responsibilities in New York State. The general rule is that you should write the provision so that the law of the state where the employee works governs the contract.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. Get information on wage and hour laws, child labor, industry specific laws and how New York is combating wage theft. The Fair Labor Standards Act is the federal law that sets standards related to minimum wage, overtime pay, child labor, leave, and more. State Labor Laws: Minimum Paid Rest Periods, Minimum Meal Periods, Prevailing Wages, Payday Requirements. State law requires all employers to post a notice of Massachusetts wage and hours laws in the workplace in a location where it can be easily read. The Attorney General's Fair Labor Division protects workers from exploitation and sets a level playing field for employers. Employers should be aware of the federal labor laws that may apply to their company based on their size. New York State employment law ensures fair payment practices through specific payment regulations.