NEW YORK – Today, State Senators Daniel Squadron and Brad Hoylman, sponsors of the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA), issued the following statement in response to Governor Cuomo’s letter to the Empire State Pride Agenda:

“Today, Governor Cuomo reiterated his support for equal rights for transgender New Yorkers. His call signals the urgency of ensuring that transgender New Yorkers enjoy the same basic protections that most New Yorkers take for granted, including in housing and at their workplace.

“Across New York State, counties and cities, including Westchester, Suffolk, Albany, New York City, and others, have banned discrimination on the basis of gender expression as have 18 other states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. We commend Governor Cuomo for sending the clear message that GENDA must be passed as a top priority in the next legislative session.

“The State Assembly has passed this bill seven times, including in the most recent session, and it is time for the Senate to act.”

GENDA (S195/Squadron - A4226/Gottfried) would prohibit discrimination against transgender New Yorkers when it comes to housing, employment, credit, and public accommodations, while expanding New York's hate crimes law to include crimes against transgender individuals.