Retail workers are demanding safer working conditions, saying they have encountered violence while on the job.

They rallied Tuesday at the state Capitol, one day after Gov. Kathy Hochul talked about putting a focus on bringing an end to retail theft.

The workers are pushing for the Retail Workers Protection Act.

It would make assaulting a retail employee or owner a Class D felony, which would be punishable by up to seven years in prison.

Workers face dangers and hazards regularly while at work, including sexual harassment and assault, they said.

Nearly 66% of respondents to a survey done by the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union said they have experienced verbal harassment or intimidating conduct from a customer, co-worker, or manager within the last year.