Who does the Fashion Workers Act cover?
The Act applies to model management companies and to the clients who hire models — brands, retailers, advertising agencies, publishers, and production companies. It protects models regardless of whether they are classified as employees or independent contractors. Agencies carry the broadest set of obligations, including a fiduciary duty to models and a duty of due diligence on the work they procure.
Does the Fashion Workers Act require training?
The Act requires agencies and clients to establish and communicate a policy addressing abuse, harassment, and other inappropriate behavior toward a model. "Current law" includes New York's separate requirement that every employer provide annual interactive harassment prevention training to all employees. Clearpath is designed to address both.
Is this training designed to meet New York's requirements?
Yes. Clearpath’s interactive training is designed to meet or exceed the minimum standards set by the New York State Department of Labor and Division of Human Rights under N.Y. Labor Law § 201-g, and to meet the requirements of the Stop Sexual Harassment in NYC Act for New York City employers with 15 or more employees.
Does the training qualify as "interactive" under New York law?
Yes. The training includes realistic industry scenarios, knowledge checks throughout, and a final assessment with a required passing score. Participants actively engage with the material — which is the standard New York law requires.
Why do we need fashion-specific training?
Because the risks are specific. Generic training does not address consent for nudity, physical direction on set, after-hours client invitations, the pressure not to be labeled "difficult," or an agency's fiduciary duty under the Fashion Workers Act. Clearpath does.
Does the training cover models, or only staff?
Both. The training covers your entire roster — agents, bookers, assistants, and the models you represent. Each scenario includes separate guidance for models, for the agency, and for the photographer or client involved.
How long does the training take?
Most people complete it in 20 to 45 minutes. New York does not impose a minimum duration; the training must cover all required topics and be interactive.
Can people take the training on their phones?
Yes. Clearpath is browser-based and works on any device — desktop, laptop, tablet, or phone. No apps to install.
What if the law changes?
When the law changes, we update the training and let you know.
Does purchasing a training create an attorney-client relationship?
No. Clearpath provides compliance education to help your team understand and follow the law, not legal advice. Because no attorney-client relationship is formed, no attorney-client privilege attaches to your communications with us. For legal advice specific to your situation — or for anything you need to keep privileged — consult your own counsel.
Does training our team guarantee we won't face a claim?
No. It's up to your team to put these principles into practice and create a safe environment for everyone. But even if you do everything right, bad-faith or misguided lawsuits from plaintiffs may still occur.