Bill > A01253

This bill requires employers in New York to annually report to the Division of Human Rights the total number of settlements involving discrimination claims on the basis of sex, including various forms of sexual harassment. The reporting must be anonymized and aggregated, and includes settlements where an individual receives something of value in exchange for not pursuing a claim, such as internal mediations or workplace resolutions. Sexual harassment is broadly defined to include inappropriate touching, verbal comments of a sexual nature, demeaning nicknames, sexual gestures, unwanted sexual proposals, sexually explicit images, and undue attention to sexual relationships or identity. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against individuals who inquire about or report non-compliance with this reporting requirement. While confidentiality agreements between employers and employees are still permitted, they cannot be used to avoid reporting settlements. The bill also requires the Division of Human Rights to submit an annual public report to the governor and legislature by April 1st, detailing the number of settlements, discrimination charges, actions taken, and categorizing settlements by industry using the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). The act will take effect on the first day of January following its passage.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1253