Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell says a bill, recently passed by the Assembly, would prevent employers from discriminating against people based on their family status.

“Families are the building blocks of society and if someone is not given a fair shot at employment because they have children, it makes us weaker,” Russell said. “With the passage of my bill, the Assembly is pushing to ensure that no matter one’s family status, they will not be discriminated against but judged by their qualifications.”

The bill makes it illegal for an employer, employment agency, or other organization to deny work or promotions to people based on the presence of children in the household.

In addition to Russell’s bill, the Assembly passed a series of laws designed to advance equal protection for all New Yorkers.

The Families First Agenda would outlaw sexual harassment in all workplaces, even those with less than four employees, and will require employers to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant women on the job site. Victims of gender-based discrimination at work or while applying for credit will be able to recover attorney fees under the new legislation.

With the passage of today’s legislation access to affordable childcare would be greatly expanded across New York with a one-year work exemption for households receiving public assistance who have a child under the age of one. Parents who work the night-shift would also be supported with a new program to provide a childcare subsidy so children can be cared for during the day if they are not in school.

“The Families First Agenda passed by the Assembly today demonstrates the state’s commitment to children and families no matter their background,” Russell said. “I’m proud to lead the effort for equality in this state and we’ve taken a significant step forward today. I encourage my colleagues in the Senate to join us in protecting families across the state.”

Russell represents the 116th “River District,” which includes all St. Lawrence County towns along the St. Lawrence River townships, plus the towns of Canton, Potsdam, Rossie, Macomb, and DePeyster, and part of Jefferson County, including Watertown.