NYS Human Rights Law Statute of Limitations Extended to Three Years, Effective February 15, 2024

On November 17, 2023, Governor Hochul signed legislation that extends the statute of limitations for discrimination and retaliation claims under the New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL) from one year to three years. Previously, this longer timeframe was only applicable to claims of sexual harassment, while all other forms of unlawful discrimination had a one-year statute of limitations. With this amendment, all complaints of unlawful discrimination must now be filed with the DHR within three years of the alleged discriminatory practice. The new law will become effective on February 15, 2024, 90 days after signing, and will apply to all unlawful discriminatory practice claims arising on or after this effective date. These claims encompass discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, age, sexual orientation, disability, military status, and other protected classes, as well as claims of unlawful retaliation under the NYS Human Rights Law.