ALBANY- Individuals who are victims of unlawful discrimination will have three years to file a complaint with the state Division of Human Rights. The previous statute of limitations was one year.
Effective Thursday, survivors of discrimination will have three years from the date of the alleged incidents to file an unlawful discrimination claim. Advocates for the extended statute of limitations say it is important because studies have shown that survivors of discriminatory experiences often have difficulty processing discriminatory incidents within a one-year timeframe. The new extended timeframe, they say, would afford survivors a legal remedy after working through their individual healing process.
The bill extending the statute was sponsored by State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal (D, Manhattan) and Assemblymember Nily Rozic (D, Queens).
“New York State remains committed to promoting safety, dignity, and respect for survivors as the tide of hate rises across our country,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “This new statute of limitations adds another layer to our collective responsibility to protect one another and create an environment that makes survivors feel safe.”
