Fashion Models Win Groundbreaking Labor Rights as New York Forces Industry Shake-Up
New York's fashion industry underwent a seismic shift as models secured unprecedented labor protections under a groundbreaking law set to take effect June 19, 2025. This first-of-its-kind legislation targets model management companies (MMCs) and their clients, aiming to end decades of exploitation through contract transparency and worker safeguards. Years of model advocacy led to these strong labor protections, which will be enforced by the New York Department of Labor with violators facing fines up to $3,000 for first offenses.
Under the new rules, MMCs must register with the state, paying fees between $500 and $700 depending on company size. This registration requirement includes a one-year grace period, giving agencies until June 19, 2026 to comply. The law also imposes strict limits on contractual arrangements, capping commissions at 20% and restricting contracts to three-year maximums. Larger agencies with more than five employees will need to secure a $50,000 surety bond as additional financial protection for models.
Models will now receive detailed job disclosures 24 hours before assignments, including all deductions and client agreements. For jobs exceeding eight hours, a 30-minute meal break becomes mandatory, while overtime kicks in at 1.5 times the regular rate. The law also addresses wage theft by requiring full itemization of deductions and timely payment notifications. Unlike traditional mother agencies who typically charge commission rates of 10-20%, exploitative agencies often hide excessive fees within complex contracts.
“Model agencies face new regulations: state registration with fees, 20% commission caps, and three-year maximum contracts.”
Health and safety concerns receive attention too, as MMCs must verify jobs pose "no unreasonable risk" to models. Clients must carry liability insurance, and formal harassment reporting channels must be established with anti-retaliation provisions. The legislation also mandates personalized attention for models, similar to what mother agents traditionally provide through career guidance and support. Importantly, all deductions from compensation must be clearly specified upfront to ensure models understand their earnings structure.
The legislation breaks new ground with its digital rights protections. Models must provide written consent for AI replicas, with the right to revoke permission even after publication. This represents the fashion industry's first legal safeguards against unauthorized digital cloning.
Compliance will present challenges for agencies and clients alike. Companies need thorough policy overhauls covering contracts, handbooks, and client agreements. Critics note the law lacks strong payment penalty structures while potentially overburdening ethical MMCs with regulatory requirements.
Despite implementation questions, the law represents a watershed moment for an industry long criticized for worker exploitation, setting potential precedents for other states to follow.