Victims of Domestic Violence Know Your Rights!
- Under New York State's Human Rights Law, it is unlawful to discriminate against someone because the person is a victim of domestic violence.
- New York State law protects victims of domestic violence from discrimination when they attempt to rent or lease housing. It also provides victims with a defense in eviction proceedings and private right of action.
- Under the Federal Violence Against Women Act, it is illegal for a landlord participating in a federally subsidized housing program, such as Section 8 housing, to deny or terminate voucher assistance based on victim status.
- It is unlawful to discriminate against a domestic violence victim in hiring, firing, condition of employment, job advancement, requests for use of leave time, or in retaliation for filing a complaint of discrimination.