The statute of limitations for New Yorkers who experience illegal discrimination is about to be extended from one year to three years, Gov. Kathy Hochul's office said Wednesday.

The legislation setting the new statute of limitations was signed into law by Hochul back in November and takes effect on Thursday.

Victims can file a complaint with the state Division of Human Rights.

“New York State remains committed to promoting safety, dignity, and respect for survivors as the tide of hate rises across our country," Hochul said in a statement. "This new statute of limitations adds another layer to our collective responsibility to protect one another and create an environment that makes survivors feel safe.”

Incidents occurring on or before Wednesday would still require a claim to be filed within one year of the incident, or three years for sexual harassment in employment. 

“This bill provides a more reasonable window of time for survivors of discrimination to bring their claim forward. While a three-year statute of limitations for sexual harassment in employment has been in effect since 2020, today’s amendment applies to all forms of discrimination under the State Human Rights Law," state Division of Human Rights Commissioner Maria Imperial said. "It significantly broadens the rights of all survivors of discrimination and helps raise the responsibility and liability of employers, housing providers, public accommodations and educational institutions to abide by the State Human Rights Law at all times."