NYC Takes Stand Against Weight Discrimination with New Law

The New York City Council is expected to approve a bill that adds a person’s weight to the list of characteristics that are protected from discrimination, along with race, gender, age, religion and sexual orientation. The law would prohibit employers and businesses from discriminating in employment, housing and access to public accommodations. The measure is supported by a majority of the City Council, with 33 co-sponsors out of 51 members. The bill is part of a growing national campaign to address weight discrimination, with lawmakers in New Jersey and Massachusetts considering similar measures.