It is unlawful to commit discriminatory acts


On March 14, 2000, the Westchester County Board of Legislators unanimously passed and the County Executive signed the Westchester County Human Rights Law. This law made it unlawful to commit discriminatory acts in employment, housing, public accommodation and credit against individuals because of their group identity based on their race, color,  eligion, ethnicity, creed, age, national origin, alienage or citizenship status, familial status, gender, marital status, sexual orientation or disability.

On October 6, 2005 the Human Rights Law was expanded to become the only human rights law  in New York State to prohibit discrimination in both employment and housing against victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse and stalking.

On June 4, 2007 the law was further expanded to provide for

• monetary damages in cases where there is a pattern and practice of discrimination;
• the award of punitive damages in all cases where the discrimination has been willful or wanton or malicious;
• and the assessment of civil fines and penalties in housing cases.

If you think you may have a basis for a claim, complete the intake questionnaire and mail it to the Human Rights Committee.