BATTLE VS. BIGOTS
State bans discrimination for hair, clothes
ALBANY — Gov. Cuomo signed legislation Friday prohibiting employee discrimination based on religious attire or facial hair.
Known as the “Religious Garb Bill,” the measure puts the onus on an employer to show that appearance, such as facial hair, or the wearing of religious items, such as turbans, yarmulkes or hijabs, would present a hazard or prevent a worker from doing his or her job.
“As New Yorkers we cele- brate our diversity and we champion freedom of religious expression in all places, including the workplace,” Cuomo said. “This law will protect people from discriminatory employment practices based on religious attire or facial hair and
- one who may still have doubts that New York has zero tolerance for bigotry of any kind.”
The legislation was inspired by Kevin Harrington, a now-retired Metropolitan Transportation Authority subway operator who was
- ban or brand it with an agency logo back in 2004.
Harrington, who is Sikh, sued the MTA and won his case.
Assembly Member David Weprin (D-Queens) first introduced the bill in 2011 when the Sikh Coalition rked with the City Counto l enhance religionsed protections for emoyees in the five boroughs. The state bill passed the sembly every year since 13, but stalled in the Reblican-controlled Senate. ith Dems in power in both uses and Sen. John Liu -Queens) as the sponsor, e measure was finally sent Cuomo in April. “The historic religious rb bill makes it clear that w Yorkers will not tolerany e discrimination ainst people of faith in the orkplace,” Weprin said. “At a time when instances of bigotry and hate are increasing, it is our duty to stand up for each other’s rights and dignity. No New Yorker should have to choose between their profession and their religious beliefs.”