Statement from Senate Majority Leader John J. Flanagan

Recently, our Senate Republican Majority introduced legislation (S7848) that represents the most comprehensive response yet to sexual harassment in the workplace.

Spearheaded by Senator Young, members of our women’s caucus and others, this legislation mirrors much of what the Governor originally proposed but builds on his plan in several important areas.

Our approach is a statewide fix that will combat sexual harassment in both the public and private sectors all across New York.

For the first time ever, we create a uniform policy for all branches of state and local government, and establish a specialized unit to receive and investigate sexual harassment claims.

We ensure individual accountability when it comes to sexual harassment and prohibit mandatory arbitration clauses to resolve claims.

Our legislation would prohibit confidentiality agreements unless the victim requests that his or her identity be kept private, a key provision that ensures we never discourage anyone who has been sexually harassed from coming forward and telling their story. 

We also put in place necessary safeguards to allow government to recoup monies to rightly protect hardworking taxpayers from being on the hook for individual acts of sexual harassment.

We will act as soon as possible on this important legislation, which incorporates key proposals advanced by both Republicans and Democrats.  

Our legislation will help prevent sexual harassment and ensure all employees throughout this state are provided with the safe work environment they deserve.  I urge the Governor and Assembly to join us in approving this bill and delivering a result that New Yorkers can be proud of.