Domestic workers are celebrating sweeping reforms that were signed into law Tuesday. But advocates hope more progress will follow. Bobby Cuza tells us what this legislation changes for these workers.

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NEW YORK, N.Y. -- They are nannies, housekeepers and elderly caregivers. A workforce 200,000 strong here in New York, but one that has never enjoyed even the most basic labor protections.

"Many of us suffer abuse and exploitations, long hours, low pay, verbal and even physical abuse," said nanny Dolores Wright.

The hope is all that will change with the Domestic Workers' Bill of Rights, signed into law by Governor Paterson Tuesday, cheered on by dozens of domestic workers-many packed into an overflow room.

The legislation grants them time-and-a-half overtime, a minimum of one day off a week, three days of paid leave a year after the first year of employment and protection from discrimination and harassment.

In addition, a study to be conducted over the next few months will look at the possibility of workers unionizing. It's the first bill of its kind in the country.

"Nowhere have domestic workers been able to gain any level of decency, dignity, respect and recognition by the law. That changes today," said State Senator Diane Savino.

"They are real heroes of our society. They have protected the jewels of our family, our homes and our children. And yet, they've never been recognized for it," Governor Paterson said.

As for enforcement of the new law, not only will domestic workers be able to take their employers to court, but the State Labor Department and the Attorney General will now be able to file suit on their behalf.

Supporters framed the law as a civil rights victory because the overwhelming majority of domestic workers are not only women, but women of color, the very reason they were excluded from federal labor laws passed in the 1930s.

"President Lincoln signed the emancipation proclamation in 1865. Here we are in 2010, Governor Paterson will sign his version of the emancipation proclamation," Wright said.

Advocates hope it's just the first step toward larger gains, like paid sick days, health benefits and severance pay.

"The Domestic Workers' Bill of Rights is a first step in winning recognition. And in beginning to set the floor for this workforce where there has been none," said Priscilla Gonzalez, Director of Domestic Workers United.

The new law takes effect in 90 days.