The New York Division of Human Rights (NYSDHR) has launched its toll-free and confidential sexual harassment hotline. The hotline was established pursuant to an amendment to the New York State Human Rights Law, which was signed by Governor Kathy Hochul earlier this year.
Now that the hotline is live, employees and consultants in New York who have faced or are facing workplace sexual harassment may now call 1-800-HARASS-3 (1-800-427-2773) to receive free counseling and assistance between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Monday through Friday. According to the NYSDHR’s website, callers will be able to receive information from staff at the Office of Sexual Harassment Issues (OSHI) about “filing a sexual harassment complaint with the agency and, if the caller is interested in discussing their case with any attorney, the hotline will provide them with the name(s) and contact information” of a pro bono attorney experienced in workplace sexual harassment.
Employer Obligations
The new law requires that information on the hotline is to be included in any materials that employers are already required to post or provide to employees regarding sexual harassment. The New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) is expected to release additional guidance for employers on the hotline. For now, employers should review and revise all handbook sexual harassment policies to ensure compliance with the new law.
We will continue to monitor developments regarding these requirements. If you have any questions or would like assistance revising your sexual harassment policy, please reach out to us.