New York City Human Rights Law Expands Employment Protections to Independent Contractors and Freelancers Effective January 11, 2020

On September 12, 2019, the New York City Council passed a law (Int. 0136-A) that will impact New York City employers. This new law, effective January 11, 2020, will expand the scope of the New York City Human Rights Law (“NYCHRL”) to provide protections for independent contractors and freelancers. This law will ensure that independent contractors and freelancers are protected by the New York City Human Rights Law and will give them the right to file potential complaints with the New York City Commission on Human Rights when they face harassment or discrimination based on a protected class. This amendment further clarifies how to determine whether an employer has the requisite “four or more” with regards to coverage under the NYCHRL, explaining the protections will apply to employers who employed at least four workers (including independent contractors, freelancers, certain employer’s family members) at any time during the twelve months before the start of the discriminatory act.

If you are an independent contractor or employee and you feel that you have been discriminated against or wrongfully terminated on any illegal basis or have any questions regarding your rights with respect to your employment, please contact Borrelli & Associates, P.L.L.C. immediately to schedule a consultation.