Employment discrimination remains a persistent problem in the United States. Despite progress made over the years, discrimination against employees continues to occur in various forms, including race, age, sex, disability, religion, and national origin. In New York State, there have been some updates regarding employment discrimination laws. This article will discuss the latest information on employment discrimination under New York State law, including employee rights under both state and city laws.
Employee Rights under New York State Law
In New York State, employment discrimination is prohibited under the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL), which applies to employers with four or more employees. The law prohibits discrimination based on several protected characteristics, including age, race, gender, religion, national origin, marital status, disability, and sexual orientation. Under the NYSHRL, employees have the right to file a complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights (DHR) or in court within three years of the alleged discrimination.
New York City Law
New York City has its own Human Rights Law (NYCHRL) that provides additional protections beyond those provided by the state law. The NYCHRL applies to employers with four or more employees and prohibits discrimination based on the same protected characteristics as the NYSHRL, as well as other characteristics such as caregiver status and arrest or conviction record. Employees in New York City have the right to file a complaint with the New York City Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) or in court within three years of the alleged discrimination.
Updates on Employment Discrimination in New York State
Recently, there have been updates regarding employment discrimination in New York State. One significant change is the adoption of the New York State Hero Act, which was signed into law on May 5, 2021. The law requires all employers to implement workplace safety standards to protect employees from airborne infectious diseases, such as COVID-19. The Hero Act also prohibits retaliation against employees who raise concerns or report violations related to workplace safety.
Another update is the adoption of the New York State Gender Recognition Act, which was signed into law on June 24, 2021. The law allows individuals to self-identify their gender on their birth certificate, without requiring medical documentation or court order. The Gender Recognition Act also prohibits discrimination based on gender identity or expression in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
How Experienced Employment Attorneys Can Help
If you believe you have experienced employment discrimination in New York State, it is essential to seek legal advice from experienced attorneys like those found at Gash & Associates, P.C. We can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a complaint or lawsuit. We happily offer free consultations to employees who may have been the victims of employment discrimination, and we can represent you in court or before administrative agencies like the DHR or CCHR.
Employment discrimination remains a significant issue in the United States, and New York State has updated its laws to provide better protections for employees. If you believe you have been the victim of employment discrimination, it is crucial to seek legal advice from experienced attorneys who can help you navigate the process of seeking justice. Remember, the attorneys at Gash & Associates, P.C. are here to help. Call today at (914) 328-8800.
