New York State Dramatically Expands Its Discrimination Laws

New York, N.Y. (July 11, 2019) - The New York State legislature has adopted, and it is anticipated that Governor Cuomo will soon sign, new legislation that makes the state one of the most pro-employee states in the country. The dates on which particular legislative provisions take effect are staggered, but many of the most drastic changes take effect within 60 days after the legislation is adopted.

The critical changes to the New York State Human Rights Law include the following:

1. harassment need no longer be severe or pervasive to create an actionable hostile environment;
2. attorneys' fees and punitive damages are now recoverable for all discrimination claims;
3. employers can no longer avoid liability based on an employee's failure to complain about the discriminatory conduct via the employers' discrimination policies and procedures;