S2442

The New York State Senate passed legislation to amend the Executive Law's definition of sexual orientation by removing outdated protective language. Senate Print 2442, sponsored by Sen. Hoylman-Sigal, passed on a 62-0 roll call vote. The bill eliminates a clause stating that protections do not extend to conduct otherwise proscribed by law—language Hoylman-Sigal argued is unnecessary since no law in New York or the United States criminalizes sexual orientation. "Our statutes literally speak volumes about New Yorkers," Hoylman-Sigal said in explaining his vote, adding that the amendment represents "a very important statement by this body." He expressed hope for continued expansion of protections, particularly for transgender youth and families amid what he characterized as attacks on that community sweeping across the country. The bill takes effect immediately.