As of, June 11, 2013, a new law went into effect that makes discriminating against job applicants because they are unemployed a violation of human rights. Violations of this law will be punished the same way that discriminating against job applicants based on race, national origin, gender, disability, sexual orientation or any other category protected by the NYC human rights law.
With the new law in place, people who believe they have been discriminated against because of their unemployment status can file a complaint with the New York City Commission on Human Rights or can sue you in court. Employers found in violation of the law can be found liable for:
The new discrimination law is applicable to employment agencies, employers with four or more employees and includes independent contractors who do not have their own employees.
The new law prohibits you from:
However, employers may still consider job-related qualifications including:
Steps you can take to protect your company
One of the most difficult things for employers is navigating the many new regulations and laws that go into effect, often without notice. And navigating this new job discrimination law may require the assistance of a skilled NYC employment law attorney. However you can take a few steps right now that may help, such as:
Talk to an employment law attorney today
Stephen D. Hans & Associates, P.C. can answer your questions regarding the new human rights law. We can help you craft and change your policies so you are in compliance with the new law and other employment law compliance issues.