New York has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 8417) that adds “status as a victim of domestic violence” to the list of protected classes throughout the New York Human Rights Law (NYHRL). Senate Bill 8417 is effective immediately.
Background:
In 2019, the NYHRL was amended to prohibit employers from discriminating against employees who are victims of domestic violence and provide such employees with reasonable accommodations.
The Details:
Senate Bill 8417 adds “status as a victim of domestic violence” to the list of protected classes in provisions throughout the NYHRL and expressly prohibits employment agencies and labor organizations from discriminating on the basis of an individual’s status as a victim of domestic violence. See the text of the law for further details.
Next Steps:
New York employers should review their anti-discrimination policies and procedures to ensure compliance with Senate Bill 8417.