Effective January 11, 2020, independent contractors in New York City are protected from discrimination or harassment in the workplace and can sue under the
New York City Human Rights Law (New York State Human Rights Law already protects independent contractors). In addition, independent contractors in NYC now have a right to request and receive a reasonable accommodation related to their disability, religious observance, etc.
Because independent contractors are protected under the New York City Human Rights Law, companies in NYC with 15 or more employees are now required to provide
annual sexual harassment prevention training to independent contractors (It was previously encouraged). Companies must modify their policies and training materials/procedures accordingly. Training under the NYC Human Rights Law must be completed by April 1, 2020.
