Fighting for LGBTQ Rights
Governor Cuomo has been a national leader in championing LGBTQ rights. In 2011, he led the historic charge to make New York State the first large state to pass marriage equality. Since then, Governor Cuomo has continued to lead the nation in advocating for LGBTQ rights – signing the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act, banning conversion therapy based on gender identity or sexual orientation, and prohibiting the use of "gay and transgender panic" as a legal defense in courts.
Meanwhile, the federal government has pursued a series of attacks on the LGBTQ community, dismantling years of civil rights progress and rolling back protections for LGBTQ individuals. Across the country, LGBTQ people still face discrimination, harassment, and violence simply for being who they are. New York State refuses to let that stand. Under Governor Cuomo's leadership, we will continue to fight to ensure that all New Yorkers, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, can live with the dignity and equality they deserve.
Signing GENDA into Law
On January 25, 2019, Governor Cuomo signed into law the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA).
Standing Up to the Federal Government
New York's Opposition to Foster Care Discrimination
The federal government's proposed rule change would allow adoption agencies to discriminate against LGBTQ families.
Protecting LGBTQ Workers from Discrimination
The federal government's proposal to expand the definition of "religious exemptions" would give federal contractors license to discriminate.
Fighting Federal Rollback of Trans Healthcare Protections
The federal government's proposed rollback of healthcare protections would undermine protections for transgender and gender nonconforming individuals.
Signing LGBTQ Bills
Restoring Benefits for LGBTQ Veterans
The Restoration of Honor Act gives veterans who were denied an honorable discharge because of their sexual orientation or gender identity the right to apply to have their benefits restored.
Competency Training for Youth Homeless Shelters
On National Coming Out Day, Governor Cuomo signed legislation requiring organizations that care for homeless youth to complete LGBT competency training.
Protecting the Rights of Legally Recognized Parents
Governor Cuomo signed legislation prohibiting NYS courts from denying child adoptions to petitioners who are already a legally-recognized parent solely on that basis.