Press Releases

Everyone deserves a life free of discrimination, intimidation and bullying. That’s why I cosponsored and voted in favor of the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA), which passed yesterday in the Assembly, continuing my commitment to equal rights for all New Yorkers, including our transgender citizens who deserve fair treatment and the protection of our laws.  Currently, it is illegal in New York State to discriminate on the basis of sex, age, race, creed, national origin and sexual orientation.  GENDA extends current law to ban discrimination on the basis of gender identity and expression as well (A.5710-A).

Without legal protection, transgender people can be denied work, service at a restaurant and even housing – essentials that no person should be refused based on their identity.

Many of New York’s localities and businesses have already enacted policies to protect transgender people.  New York State needs to step up and join the ranks of those fighting for true equality and take this critical step in making a difference in the lives of those who are victims of prejudice.