An Injured Worker, a $100K Offer and the Fight Over New York's Scaffold Law

Key facts

Outlet

Documented

Date

11/09/2026

Law

New York's Scaffold Law

Offer

$100K, tied to an injured worker per the headline

Tactics described

RICO lawsuits and influence campaigns by industry groups

Stakes

Described as one of the last avenues for injured workers to recoup wages

What it means

The highlights

1. Industry groups are using RICO lawsuits to fight Scaffold Law claims.
2. Influence campaigns are also aimed at ending the law.
3. The law is one of the last ways injured workers can recoup lost wages.

Why it matters Landlords

Any change to the Scaffold Law could shift liability and insurance costs for owners who hire construction or facade work.

What to do: Follow the Scaffold Law debate if you hire construction crews.

Not known yet

• Who the injured worker is and how the injury happened
• Who made the $100K offer and what it covered
• Which industry groups filed RICO lawsuits and against whom
• Whether any bill to change the Scaffold Law is pending in Albany

Background

New York's Scaffold Law, Labor Law Section 240(1), generally holds property owners and contractors responsible when workers are hurt in height-related accidents, such as falls from scaffolds or ladders, or being struck by falling objects, if required safety protection was not provided. Business and insurance groups have long argued that the law raises construction and insurance costs. Worker advocates argue that it protects people in a dangerous trade.