What Employers Need to Know About NYC’s Height and Weight Discrimination Protections

New York City has amended it Human Right Law to prohibit discrimination on the basis of height and weight. The law, which was signed by Mayor Eric Adams on May 26, 2023, will take effect on November 22, 2023.

Under the new law, it will be illegal for employers to:

• Refuse to hire, fire, or promote someone because of their height or weight.

• Make hiring or employment decisions based on someone's height or weight.

• Create a hostile work environment for someone because of their height or weight.

Under the new law, employers may still be able to consider height or weight if it is essential to the job.

Employers that violate the new law, could be subject to civil penalties and/or a civil lawsuit. To ensure compliance with the new law, employers should:

• Review their hiring and employment practices to make sure that they do not discriminate on the basis of height or weight.

• Train managers and supervisors on the new law.

• Update their employee handbooks to reflect the new law.

If you have questions about your business’ employment practices or policies, please schedule a complimentary consultation with us through our online scheduling system.

Information contained in this blog is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice or opinion. You should consult with an attorney regarding the specifics of your matter or legal issue.