New York Human Rights Law — protected classes in employment
The New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL), codified as Article 15 of the Executive Law, prohibits employment discrimination based on age, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, sex, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, familial status, marital status, and status as a victim of domestic violence. Section 296 makes it unlawful for any employer to refuse to hire, discharge, or discriminate in compensation or terms and conditions of employment because of membership in a protected class. The law applies to all employers in New York, regardless of size, and covers employees, applicants, interns, and certain non-employees.
Source: N.Y. Exec. Law § 296
NYC Human Rights Law — four-employee threshold
For employers located in New York City, the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL) imposes additional anti-discrimination obligations beyond the state law. The NYCHRL applies to employers with four or more employees for most protected-class claims under Section 8-107. Independent contractors working in furtherance of the employer's business are counted toward the four-employee threshold. However, gender-based harassment claims under Section 8-107(1) apply to all NYC employers regardless of size, even those with fewer than four employees.