ALBANY, NY – Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a significant legal change that will extend the statute of limitations for filing unlawful discrimination complaints in New York State.
Effective February 15, 2024, New Yorkers who experience unlawful discrimination will now have three years to file a complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights, an extension from the previous one-year limit.
This legislative amendment aims to offer greater protection and support to survivors of discrimination, reflecting New York State’s commitment to upholding the values of safety, dignity, and respect in the face of rising hate incidents across the nation. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of this change as part of the state’s responsibility to protect its citizens and foster a safe environment for survivors.
Maria Imperial, Commissioner of the New York State Division of Human Rights, highlighted the significance of the new statute, noting that it provides a more reasonable timeframe for survivors to bring forward their claims.
While a three-year statute of limitations has been in effect for sexual harassment claims in employment since 2020, this amendment expands the protection to encompass all forms of discrimination under the State Human Rights Law. This broadening of rights underscores the responsibility of employers, housing providers, public accommodations, and educational institutions to comply with the State Human Rights Law at all times.
State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assembly Member Rozic, sponsors of the bill, expressed pride in this legislative achievement, underscoring its importance in offering justice to victims of unlawful discrimination. The extension of the statute of limitations to three years is seen as a critical step towards supporting those harmed by discriminatory practices and ensuring New York State is a place of support rather than one that shields abusers under technicalities.