Funeral Leave Bill Passes N.Y. Senate

A bill that would grant funeral or bereavement leave on the death of a same-sex partner has passed the New York state senate.

According to a news release from the senate's Democratic majority, the bill passed the chamber 50-11. It already has passed the Democratic-controlled assembly.

"The bill, spearheaded by Senator Velmanette Montgomery (D-Brooklyn), extends this privilege that was previously granted only to employees that are married, adding a section to the civil rights law that prohibits its employers from discriminating in the granting of funeral or bereavement leave to its employees who are in a 'committed' same-sex relationship. A 'committed' relationship is defined as a long-term relationship characterized by emotional and financial commitment and interdependence. It also orders the granted leave to be extended on the same basis as if offered to married employees," says the release.