Bill > A05606

This bill prohibits discrimination against individuals who are actual or perceived victims of domestic violence, sex offenses, or stalking, and mandates training on this issue. It amends existing laws to define "sex offense" as an offense described in article one hundred thirty of the penal law and "stalking" as various degrees of stalking as defined in sections 120.45 through 120.60 of the penal law. Employers are now prohibited from refusing to hire, employ, license, or discriminating in compensation or terms of employment based on an individual's status as a victim of these crimes, and from making inquiries or publishing statements that express such discrimination, with an exception for providing assistance or reasonable accommodations. Employers must also provide reasonable accommodations to employees who are victims of domestic violence, sex offenses, or stalking, unless it causes undue hardship, and must engage in a cooperative dialogue regarding these accommodations. The bill also requires employers to maintain the confidentiality of information regarding an employee's victim status and mandates that sexual harassment prevention policies and training programs, starting January 1, 2027, include guidance on workplace protections for victims of domestic violence, sex offenses, and stalking, detailing prohibited discrimination, required accommodations, and available remedies.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5606