NY Gov. Cuomo to include gender identity in anti-bias rules

New York (AP) — New York's governor is using his executive power to expand the state's anti-discrimination rules to protect transgender New Yorkers.

A spokesman says Gov. Andrew Cuomo will announce the policy change Thursday night at an event hosted by the Empire State Pride Agenda.

Gay, lesbian and transgender New Yorkers have long pushed to include gender identity in the state's anti-discrimination law. But while the measure has passed the Assembly multiple times, it remains stalled in the Republican-controlled state Senate.

Cuomo's move will 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.

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

Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

The Gayly – October 22, 2015 @ 4:30 p.m.