Weight or Height Discrimination
Discrimination at work because of your weight or height can be deeply harmful, affecting your career, self-worth, and economic security.
Effective November 22, 2023, weight and height became protected characteristics under the New York City Human Rights Law, applying to employers with four or more employees.
New York City now explicitly prohibits discrimination based on weight or height in all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotion, compensation, job assignments, benefits, training, and termination.
What New York City Law Prohibits
Under this legal framework, employers are prohibited from treating employees or job applicants unfavorably due to their weight or height.
- Denying promotions because of an individual's weight or height.
- Withholding training opportunities because of an individual's weight or height.
- Terminating employment because of an individual's weight or height.
- Creating a hostile work environment because of an individual's weight or height.
Examples of Weight & Height Discrimination
The law extends to situations where employers categorize jobs based on physical characteristics such as weight or height, limiting certain positions to individuals of a particular size or stature.
Exceptions & How We Can Help
Limited exceptions exist where weight or height is a bona fide occupational qualification (BFOQ) that is reasonably necessary to the normal operation of the business.
Contact A Seasoned &
Qualified Weight & Height Discrimination Attorney
Please feel free to call us at (212) 233-6400 or contact us online.