Height and Weight Now Included as Protected Classes Under New York City Human Rights Law

On May 26, 2023, New York City Mayor Eric Adams signed a bill amending the New York City Human Rights Law to include height and weight as protected classes. This law, effective from November 23, 2023, aims to prevent discrimination based on these physical attributes in employment, housing, and public accommodations.

Key Points

• The law prohibits landlords, housing providers, and real estate professionals from denying housing opportunities or treating individuals unfairly due to their height or weight.
• The law ensures that housing decisions are based on an individual’s qualifications rather than physical attributes unrelated to their financial ability to afford a property.
• The New York City Commission on Human Rights will enforce this law, investigate violations, and impose penalties.
• Real estate professionals are advised to review and update their current policies to include height and weight as protected classes.

This new law represents a significant step towards promoting equality and preventing discrimination in New York City.

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