Bill > A01182

This bill modifies existing laws to protect jury awards in employment discrimination cases, ensuring that courts cannot reduce these awards simply because they are deemed excessive unless there are exceptional circumstances, such as the jury being influenced by bias, error, or corruption, or if reducing the award is absolutely necessary to prevent a grave injustice. Specifically, it amends the Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) and the Executive Law to establish a higher standard for courts to overturn or reduce jury verdicts in cases involving unlawful discriminatory practices related to employment, including claims by non-employees. The bill clarifies that such awards should not be disturbed unless exceptional circumstances are found, prioritizing the remedial purpose of anti-discrimination laws and preventing courts from using previous damage awards or a judge's personal experience to justify reducing a jury's decision. This change applies to all pending cases where a verdict has not yet been reached and all new claims filed on or after the bill's effective date.