Ithaca business owners are divided over a proposal that would require just-cause employment protections in the city, according to WENY.
New York generally follows at-will employment rules, but Ithaca would join New York City as one of two cities in the state with just-cause protections if the proposal is adopted.
Supporters say the change would give workers stronger job protections and prevent unfair dismissals.
Opponents argue the measure could increase costs and administrative burdens for small businesses, with one business owner citing an estimated $900,000 cost for the city to administer the protections.
The city created a Special Committee on Wrongful Discharge and Labor Protections in 2026 to study the issue, and the committee is authorized to operate through Dec. 31.
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