New York state officials have finalized an updated policy for combating sexual harassment in the workplace for employers in the private, as well as non-profit sectors, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday announced. 

Changes include how to address remote workers, gender discrimination and retaliation in the workplace. At the same time, the Department of Labor also announced a new training video for employers, as well as online resources to help workers understand the new policy and mandatory training requirements. 

Hochul first announced plans to change the state's sexual harassment policies last year as the law requires a re-assessment of the existing policy every four years.

Hochul took office in the wake of the resignation of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who left office after allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior. 

"New York State is taking a tremendous step in modernizing our Sexual Harassment Prevention Model Policy to ensure that every worker has equitable access to resources that will foster safe and inclusive work environments," Hochul said. "When I took office, I promised to overhaul our state's policies to give New Yorkers the strongest protections against workplace harassment and abuse. Now, thanks to the efforts of the Department of Labor and feedback from countless New Yorkers, these policy changes and resources will help businesses adapt their policies to the modern workplace and solidify New York's standing as a national leader for worker protection."

State Department of Labor officials, as well as the Division of Human Rights, developed the new policy alongside workers and advocates during a public comment period and public hearing. 

New York first put a statewide harassment policy in place in 2018, requiring employers of all sizes to create a sexual harassment prevention plan and provide training to workers. 

The new training video will be made to employers across the state, while the Department of Labor is also launching a public education campaign to understand the changes. 

"New York State continues to be an economic powerhouse because we are backed by a strong and committed workforce," said Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon. "The new sexual harassment prevention policy and model training ensure the state's workers are protected."