Relates to preventing housing discrimination against victims of domestic violence; repealer

2 Co-sponsors

• Ruth Hassell-Thompson
• Timothy M. Kennedy

BILL NUMBER:S6994

Title of bill

An act to amend the executive law, in relation to preventing housing discrimination against victims of domestic violence; and to repeal certain provisions of such law relating thereto

Purpose or general idea of the bill

This bill would prohibit discrimination against victims of domestic violence in housing and certain other settings.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 of the bill would amend Executive Law S 292 by revising subdivision 34 to better define the term "victim of domestic violence," Sections 2, 3, 4 and 5 of the bill would amend various subdivisions of Executive Law S 296 to prohibit discrimination in housing and certain other settings, including public accommodations and education, on the basis of an individual's status as a victim of domestic violence. Section 6 of the bill would amend Executive Law S 296 by adding a new subdivision 22 to provide that a housing provider may inquire as to an individual's status as a victim of domestic violence. Section 7 of the bill would provide that it will become effective 90 days after enactment.

Justification

Domestic violence is a crime of enormous magnitude that affects all New Yorkers-regardless of age, race, or economic status-with long term and pervasive consequences for: victims, families, communities and society. Each year, an estimated 400,000 domestic violence incidents are reported to law enforcement in New York, and approximately 300,000 calls arc received by hotlines throughout the State. Nearly 165,000 orders of protection were issued in domestic violence cases in family, criminal and supreme courts in 2007 alone.

Prior legislative history

None.

Fiscal implications

This bill is not expected to have a material impact on State finances.

Effective date

90 days after enactment.