New York Department of Labor Steps Up Fight Against Sexual Harassment With Revised Action Policy
Photo: Edwin Martinez / Impremedia
The New York State continues its fight to guarantee that there are no acts of sexual harassment in the workplace, and has just announced that the work Department (NYSDOL) has a strengthened prevention policy, which seeks to enable New Yorkers to better understand their rights.
This was revealed by the commissioner of the New York State Department of Labor, Roberta Reardon, after warning of the new updated policy, which was created together with the New York State Division of Human Rights (NYS DHR) now includes protections for remote workers, defines different gender identities and broadens gender discrimination. It also presents ways in which workers can intervene when they witness harassment.
“I am grateful to the many New Yorkers who participated in this process. Your comments make New York State stronger and safer for everyone in the workplace,” the official said, after warning that the public has 30 days to comment and insisting that involving workers, employers and advocates was priority.
Maria L. Imperialcommissioner of the New York State Division of Human Rights, assured that New York is committed as a state to eliminate sexual discrimination from the workplace culture.
“This updated policy embodies the values of our State by prioritize the safety and dignity of our workforce. It is also an important step to demonstrate that the government of our State responds to the needs and comments of its workers”, said the Commissioner.
To issue the changes to the workplace sexual harassment guidance, the Department of Labor held a public hearing and used online feedback from workers, employers, and community members. In addition will launch a public education campaign to report changes to the Original Model Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy, which was created in 2018.
The anti-harassment rule states that as part of New York State’s commitment to making workplaces safer and more equitable. all employers, regardless of size, be required to adopt a sexual harassment prevention policy and provide annual employee training.
The Department of Labor added that the legislation included a provision that the Model Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy be reviewed and redacted every four years, understanding that “workplaces are constantly changing and the State is committed to strengthening its model policy to reflect the evolution of the world of work.
It should be noted that the State of New York, equally protects undocumented workersregardless of your immigration status, and retaliation against you for filing an internal complaint with your employer or for filing a complaint with the Division of Human Rights is also prohibited.
Where to report if you are a victim of workplace harassment
- If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace, file a complaint online or call the new free sexual harassment hotline at 1-800-HARASS-3 Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
