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New York City Council Passes Law Regulating Use of Artificial Intelligence in Employment Decisions

The New York City Council recently enacted an ordinance banning artificial intelligence (“AI”) in employment decisions unless the technology has been subject to an independent bias audit within a year of use.

Many employers have been using AI in employment decisions for years without regulation. This technology can range from algorithms finding ideal candidates to software used to asses a candidate’s performance during screening interviews. While AI tools promote efficiency, reduce costs, and can help employers make informed decisions, technology can run afoul of discrimination laws by reinforcing bias or screening out candidates of protected classes.
Continue Reading New York City Council Passes Law Regulating Use of Artificial Intelligence in Employment Decisions

New York Workplace Sexual Harassment Hotline Now Operational

In March 2022, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation amending the New York State Human Rights Law to establish a sexual harassment hotline directly to the New York State Division of Human Rights (NYSDHR). The hotline (800-HARASS-3), which is now active, is intended to be staffed by pro bono lawyers experienced in counseling individuals on sexual harassment. Contact with the hotline does not constitute the filing of a harassment complaint, and individuals intending to file a complaint with the NYSDHR would still be required to follow existing procedures for doing so.
Continue Reading New York Workplace Sexual Harassment Hotline Now Operational

UPDATE: Executive Order 202.8 can be read here.  In addition to closing workplaces to non-essential employees, the order:

  • Tolls state court litigation deadlines until April 19, 2020
  • Suspends Department of Motor Vehicles related deadlines until April 19, 2020
  • Tolls shareholder meeting-related deadlines until April 19, 2020
  • Tolls residential and commercial eviction enforcement for 90 days
  • Abates late fines and penalties related to filings due on or before March 20.

At a press conference this morning, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a forthcoming executive order placing further restrictions on New Yorkers’ daily life.  The order will be effective as of Sunday.  Per the New York Times, relevant employment-related provisions include:…

Continue Reading Governor Cuomo to Issue Executive Order Requiring New York Workers to Stay Home

In 2019, the New York State Legislature championed a host of employment laws that strengthen protections for employees.  One of those laws codified new requirements for non-disclosure agreements, which are effective as of October 11, 2019.  To ensure enforceability of non-disclosure provisions, employers must account for the following provisions:…
Continue Reading New York Bars Non-Disclosure Agreements in All Discrimination Case Settlements

As we previously reported here, the “Stop Sexual Harassment in NYC Act” expanded the reach of the New York City Human Rights Law in the area of gender-based discrimination, including harassment.  Among other things, as of April 1, 2019, the law mandates employers with 15 or more employees (which includes independent contractors) in the previous calendar year to conduct annual anti-sexual harassment training to all employees, including managers and supervisors.  The law requires employers to train new employees who work more than 80 hours in a calendar year within 90 days of initial hire.
Continue Reading New York City Commission on Human Rights Releases Online Gender Harassment Training

Both New York State and New York City have passed legislation intended to curtail sexual harassment, while at the same time, expanding accountability for such.  These laws impact large and small businesses that operate in the State and/or City.
Continue Reading Impending Sexual Harassment Notice and Training Requirements to Affect New York State and New York City Employers