New law mandates that employment terms are given in writing
STATE HOUSE — Legislation introduced by Sen. Jonathon Acosta and Rep. Joshua J. Giraldo that will require employers to provide all employees, at the start of their employment, with a written notice detailing the terms and conditions of their job—including pay, benefits, deductions, and work policies has become law.
JONATHON ACOSTA
“For too long, a few bad actors have been allowed to operate in the shadows—depriving workers of basic information about their own employment. That ends today,” said Representative Joshua J. Giraldo (D-Dist. 56, Central Falls). “This is about respecting workers and meeting the most basic expectations of a fair workplace. Every employee deserves to know how and when they’ll be paid, what benefits they’re entitled to, and who they are working for. This bill makes that non-negotiable.”
The bill (2025-S 0070Aaa, 2025-H 5679Aaa) mandates employers provide the following details in writing at the time of hire:
Pay rates and basis of pay (hourly, salary, commission, etc.);
Any allowances for meals or lodging;
Leave policies (sick, vacation, holidays, etc.);
Employment classification (exempt or non-exempt from minimum wage/overtime);
All possible deductions from pay;
Pay schedule and first paycheck date;
Legal and operating names of the employer;
Employer’s business address and contact number.
JOSHUA GIRALDO
“This is about transparency and accountability,” said Senator Acosta (D-Dist. 16, Central Falls, Pawtucket). “By codifying these basic terms of employment into law, we are protecting workers and ensuring that every job starts with clarity—not confusion or exploitation.”