New York Consolidated Laws, Workers' Compensation Law - WKC § 49-aa. Declaration of purpose

The compensability of claims for loss of hearing resulting from exposure to industrial noise has created a problem in this state which is a matter of grave concern to the legislature.  The legislature, therefore, finds and declares that the public interest can best be served by providing that compensation for occupational loss of hearing shall be paid only as provided in this article and subject to the conditions and limitations hereinafter set forth.