
The New York State Division of Human Rights (“NYSDHR”) released the final version of the new sexual harassment policy, along with training guidelines, on October 1, 2018 and the new, updated policy took effect on October 9, 2018. The final policy contains some changes from the earlier proposed version, most notable however, is that employers now have until October 9, 2019, to provide employees with the mandated training in accordance with the new policy. Other changes include removal of the “zero tolerance policy” language as it conflicted with federal guidelines on sexual harassment policies and removal of the requirement that new hires receive sexual harassment training within thirty days in favor of encouraging employers to complete new hire training “as soon as possible.” Additional changes to the policy from the proposed policy and required training are listed below: