State Senate votes to expand sex harassment law

ALBANY  (AP) — The New York Senate has passed legislation to broaden sexual harassment laws — but it may languish because of an abortion-related legislative standoff.

The bill passed by the Senate on Wednesday would expand sexual harassment laws to cover small businesses, which are now exempt.

Assembly leaders have included the measure in a broad, 10-point “women’s equality bill” that also contains an abortion provision matching state law with the federal Roe v. Wade decision.

Many senators object to that provision and want the Assembly to divide the bill to allow separate votes on each item.

Assembly leaders have so far refused, saying the Senate should vote on all 10 items as a package.

Other provisions are designed to aid domestic violence victims, combat sex trafficking and help pregnant women in the workplace.