What's happening
Writing a plain-English summary… Track this bill to get it by email.
Why it matters
Albany, before your first meeting.
Every bill that moved yesterday, summarized in a sentence and ranked by impact. The Albany Scorecard follows on Sundays.
Free. Unsubscribe in one click. Want alerts on specific bills? Create an account.
Who cares
Headline styles
Sponsors
History
- Substituted by A755A
- Amended on third reading 958b
- Vote reconsidered - restored to third reading
- Returned to senate
- Recalled from assembly
- Referred to governmental operations
- Delivered to assembly
- Passed senateVote 61–0
- Amended on third reading (t) 958a
- Advanced to third reading
- 2nd report cal.
- 1st report cal.8
Show 1 earlier action
- Referred to investigations and government operations
Companion bill
The same bill in the other chamber. A bill becomes law when one version passes both houses and the governor signs it, so either number can carry it.
Prohibits employers from discriminating against victims of domestic violence or stalking
Signed by Governor · Sponsor Amy Paulin
Full text
The text isn't available here yet. Check nysenate.gov.
Sponsor's memo
Title of bill
An act to amend the executive law, in relation to prohibiting employers from discriminating against victims of domestic violence or stalking based upon status as a domestic violence victim
Purpose or general idea of bill
To protect victims of domestic violence and stalking from being terminated from their job due to their status as a victim of domestic violence/stalking so that they may have the ability to deal with the unique circumstances of their lives, achieve financial independence from their abuser and participate more fully in the economy.
Summary of specific provisions
Section one amends paragraph (a) of subdivision 1 of section 296 of the executive law, as amended by chapter 75 of the laws of 2005, by adding domestic violence victim status to the list of protected classes who shall not be discriminated against by an employer or licensing agency in terms of hiring or employment practices.
Section two amends section 292 of the executive law by adding a new subdivision 34 which defines the term "domestic violence victim."
Section three provides that this act shall take effect immediately.
Justification
The intended purpose of this legislation is to assist victims of domestic violence and stalking to achieve financial independence from their abusers by prohibiting employers from asking individuals about their status as a victim of domestic violence.
The lack of financial independence for many women in abusive relationships is often the reason why women stay with their abusers - they see no alternative for them or their children.
Victims of domestic violence who do leave their abusive relationship, are often put in the position of needing time away from work in order to consult with attorneys, counselors, child care providers, etc., in an effort to gain a life of their own. Often a victim of domestic violence is embarrassed or fears losing her job and, therefore, is reluctant to inform her employer of the circumstances of her life. It is not unusual for a victim of domestic violence to be terminated from her job or demoted because she needs time off or flexible hours as a protective measure. This legislation will make. it unlawful for an employer or licensing agency to discriminate against victims of domestic violence in hiring or employment practices, helping to ensure the safety as well as the economic viability of victims.
This law already exists in New York City. This legislation would extend this practice on a statewide level.
Prior legislative history
2007-08: S.8274 Referred to Investigations & Government operations
Fiscal implication
None.
Effective date
Immediately.
Summaries, headlines and scores are AI-generated from the official bill text. How we score bills. Source: NYS Open Legislation.