New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A01620

Introduced
1/10/25  
Refer
1/10/25  

Caption

Relates to the liability of an employee committing an unlawful discriminatory practice; creates joint and several liability for employers and employees responsible for unlawful discriminatory practices.

Summary

Bill A01620 seeks to amend the executive law in New York by introducing a new section that establishes joint and several liability for employees who commit unlawful discriminatory practices. Under this bill, if an employer is found liable for such practices, the employee responsible for the discriminatory actions would also be held liable for any damages awarded. This change aims to enhance accountability among employees and deter discriminatory behavior in the workplace.

Impact

The introduction of joint and several liability under this bill would significantly impact the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws in New York. It would mean that both employers and employees could be pursued for damages in cases of unlawful discrimination, potentially leading to increased legal accountability for individual employees. This could also encourage employers to implement stricter training and compliance measures to prevent discriminatory practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill A01620 appears to be supportive among advocates for employee rights and anti-discrimination measures, as it aims to hold individuals accountable for their actions. However, there may be concerns from some employers about the implications of increased liability and the potential for higher legal costs.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the balance between holding employees accountable and the potential for employers to face increased liability. Some stakeholders may argue that this could lead to a chilling effect on employment practices, while others may contend that it is necessary to ensure that all parties involved in discriminatory practices are held responsible.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A00579

Relates to the liability of an employee committing an unlawful discriminatory practice; creates joint and several liability for employers and employees responsible for unlawful discriminatory practices.

NY S08036

Relates to liability for unlawful discriminatory practices based upon the conduct of an employee or agent; provides that an employer, licensing agency, employment agency, or labor organization shall be liable for an unlawful discriminatory practice based upon the conduct of an employee or agent where the employee or agent exercised managerial or supervisory responsibility or the conduct was carried out by a non-managerial or non-supervisory employee and such conduct was not stopped or corrected.

NY HB85

Further providing for unlawful discriminatory practices; and providing for unlawful discriminatory practices against certain religions.

NY HB5140

Employer discriminatory practices

NY HB2902

Employer discriminatory practices

NY SB1148

Further providing for unlawful discriminatory practices.

NY SB732

Modifies provisions relating to unlawful discriminatory practices

NY SB1633

Modifies provisions relating to unlawful discriminatory practices

NY HB1727

Modifies provisions relating to unlawful discriminatory practices

NY S08338

Clarifies the standard for when a practice has a discriminatory effect; provides that an unlawful discriminatory practice may be established by such practice's discriminatory effect, even if such practice was not motivated by a discriminatory intent.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.