Like many states before it, New York today published new proposed regulations to provide “clarification and specification as to the permissible methods of payment [in New York], including [the use of] payroll debit cards.”  The proposed regulations require voluntary consent from employees paid pursuant to such a program, and set minimum program requirements for feeless access to wage payments.  This is consistent with the Attorney General’s recent attempt to amend the Labor Law itself to provide these protections.  Absent a change in timetable brought about by a change in the Department’s thinking or a legal challenge, the regulations will take effect following a 45-day notice and comment period.