Today, in an effort to further protect New Yorkers from unfair
treatment in the workplace, the state Assembly passed a bill introduced by
Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, that will prevent employers from
discriminating against people based on their family status.
“Families are the building blocks of society and if someone is
not given a fair shot at employment because they have children, it makes us
weaker,” Russell said. “With the passage of my bill, the Assembly is pushing to
ensure that no matter one’s family status, they will not be discriminated
against but judged by their qualifications.”
The bill makes it illegal for an employer, employment
agency, or other organization to deny work or promotions to people based on the
presence of children in the household.
In addition to Russell’s bill, the Assembly passed a series
of laws designed to advance equal protection for all New Yorkers.
The Families First Agenda would outlaw sexual harassment in all
workplaces, even those with less than four employees, and will require
employers to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant women on the job
site. Victims of gender-based discrimination at work or while applying for
credit will be able to recover attorney fees under the new legislation.
With the passage of today’s legislation access to affordable
childcare would be greatly expanded across New York with a one-year work
exemption for households receiving public assistance who have a child under the
age of one. Parents who work the night-shift would also be supported with a new
program to provide a childcare subsidy so children can be cared for during the
day if they are not in school.
“The Families First Agenda passed by the Assembly today
demonstrates the state’s commitment to children and families no matter their
background,” Russell said. “I’m proud to lead the effort for equality in this
state and we’ve taken a significant step forward today. I encourage my
colleagues in the Senate to join us in protecting families across the state.”