Human Rights, Division of
skip breadcrumbs| Category | Available 2008-09 |
Appropriations Recommended 2009-10 |
Change From 2008-09 |
Reappropriations Recommended 2009-10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Operations | 22,562,000 | 23,029,000 | 467,000 | 14,160,000 |
| Total | 22,562,000 | 23,029,000 | 467,000 | 14,160,000 |
| Program | 2008-09 Estimated FTEs 03/31/09 |
2009-10 Estimated FTEs 03/31/10 |
FTE Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Administration | |||
| General Fund | 168 | 154 | -14 |
| Special Revenue Funds - Federal | 40 | 54 | 14 |
| Total | 208 | 208 | 0 |
Note: Most recent estimates as of 12/16/08.
Mission
New York holds the proud distinction of being the first state in the nation to enact a civil rights law, affording every individual an equal opportunity to enjoy a full and productive life, including in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodations, education, and credit. Under the State’s Human Rights Law, discriminating against others because of their race, sex, age, disability or membership in other specified classes is illegal in the State of New York. Protection under the Human Rights Law also includes prohibiting discrimination based on military status and sexual orientation.
The New York State Division of Human Rights is the State agency charged with enforcing the Human Rights Law and protecting the civil rights of New Yorkers. To fulfill these responsibilities, the Division:
- Prosecutes unlawful discriminatory practices;
- Investigates and resolves individual complaints of illegal discrimination;
- Advances policies and legislation that expand and/or better protect the civil rights of New Yorkers; and
- Promotes human rights awareness through education and outreach.
Budget Highlights
The Executive Budget recommends $23 million All Funds ($14.8 million General Fund, $8.2 million Other Funds) for the Division of Human Rights. This is an increase of $0.5 million All Funds ($0.8 million decrease in General Fund, $1.3 million increase in Other Funds) from the 2008-09 budget. This increase is a result of collectively bargained salary increases and a shift of 14 positions from the General Fund to Other Funds.
The Executive Budget recommends a Division staffing level of 208 FTEs in 2009-10. Federal appropriation authority will allow the Division to increase its staff by an additional 20 if needed to address a growing caseload and to receive and investigate complaints and hear cases in a timely manner.
2009-10 Executive Budget — Agency Presentation
Human Rights, Division of (PDF)