What Happened?

As a reminder for all employers in Rochester, New York, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2025-283 on August 27, 2025, effective immediately. This law strengthens Rochester’s sanctuary city policy and broadens anti-discrimination protections for immigrants, pregnant individuals, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

Overview

Why this matters: Employers and contractors must comply with these requirements when providing services or operating public accommodations. Non-compliance can lead to investigations, public disclosure, and loss of city contracts.

• The ordinance codifies sanctuary city protections into municipal law.
• It expands rights related to pregnancy, reproductive autonomy, and healthcare.
• It also guarantees equal access to public facilities and services for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Action Steps for Compliance

• Update Policies: Include sanctuary and anti-discrimination provisions.
• Train Staff: Ensure employees understand new protections.
• Review Contracts: Confirm compliance with city requirements.
• Monitor Practices: Audit public accommodation and service policies regularly.

Additional Information

Key Risks for Employers

• Denying services or access based on immigration status.
• Discriminating against pregnant individuals or restricting reproductive healthcare.
• Limiting access to facilities or activities based on gender identity or expression.

Summary of Provisions (Ordinance 2025-283)

Main Protections

• Immigrants:
  • No denial of services based on immigration status.
  • City staff and contractors cannot ask for immigration proof except when legally required or for criminal investigations.
  • Police cannot enforce federal immigration laws.

• Reproductive Autonomy:
  • Protects pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes (birth, miscarriage, abortion), and related healthcare decisions.
  • Safeguards bodily autonomy under NYS Equal Rights Amendment.

• LGBTQIA+ Rights:
  • Access to bathrooms, locker rooms, and facilities aligned with gender identity.
  • Participation in activities and sports consistent with gender identity.
  • Protection against discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare (including gender-affirming care), and public accommodations.

For additional details: City of Rochester, NY – No. 2025-283 (Amending the Municipal Code relating to Rochester as a Sanctuary City for immigrants and for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual community)

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