NY now prohibits discrimination based on gender identity

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — A new regulation protecting transgender New Yorkers from discrimination is taking effect.

The change, which became effective on Wednesday, expands the state's existing anti-discrimination rules to prohibit discrimination against a transgender person when it comes to jobs, loans, schools and public accommodations.

The state already prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, disability and gender.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo used his executive power last year to order the expansion after legislation that would have prohibited discrimination based on gender identity failed in the state Senate.

Nineteen states and the District of Columbia already prohibit discrimination against transgender individuals.

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The Gayly - 1/20/2016 @ 2:59 p.m. CST