NYC Mayor Adams Signs Bill Banning Weight Discrimination, Says ‘Body Type’ No Bearing On 'Whether You’re Healthy Or Unhealthy’

New York City Democratic Mayor Eric Adams signed a bill on Friday that prohibits height and weight discrimination, but his statement on the matter has raised eyebrows.

Adams claimed that “body type” has no connection to a person’s health.

Despite lacking scientific evidence to support his assertion, he defended the bill, which covers employment, housing, and public accommodations, stating that it is about fairness rather than fighting obesity.

Adams stated, “And science has shown that body type is not a connection to if you are healthy or unhealthy. I think that’s a misnomer.”

NYC Mayor Eric Adams: “I’m a person who believes in health…science has shown that body type is not a connection to if you’re healthy or unhealthy…that’s a misnomer that we are really dispelling…” pic.twitter.com/QKjfsblIQl

— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) May 26, 2023

However, organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have made it clear that obesity poses increased risks for serious diseases and health conditions, such as high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, and stroke.

Healthline also notes that being underweight carries health risks such as vitamin deficiencies, anemia, and decreased immune function.

While the mayor did not cite any specific study to support his claim, he proceeded to sign the bill, which will take effect on November 22 in New York City.

NYC mayor Adams- “Scientific studies have shown that body type does not necessarily equate to health status,
and it’s a misconception we’re keen on dismantling.”

Reality:
Obesity is the leading cause of death in America.
When will we talk about it? https://t.co/uQ5aeZoD2i

— JackReacher (@DCjusticeseeker) May 26, 2023

Other cities, including Washington, D.C., and San Francisco, as well as the states of Michigan and Washington, have already implemented laws against height and weight discrimination.

Similar legislation is under consideration in New Jersey and Massachusetts, according to The New York Times.

New York City Councilmember Shaun Abreu referred to size discrimination as a social justice issue and a public health threat.

He highlighted how people with different body types face barriers in job opportunities and fair wages, with no legal recourse to challenge this discrimination.

Abreu praised New York City’s leadership in ending size discrimination, emphasizing the city’s role as a global beacon of tolerance.

A meaningful moment for civil rights and body acceptance in New York City.

Today, @nycmayor signed our bill banning height and weight discrimination into law.

To build a truly inclusive democracy, we must love people of all shapes and sizes. pic.twitter.com/PJ3QeGpsOM

— Shaun Abreu (@ShaunAbreu) May 26, 2023

The signing of this law has sparked debate and discussion about the role of body type in health.

While the mayor’s statement lacks scientific backing, the bill represents a step towards addressing discrimination based on physical attributes.

It remains to be seen how the implementation of this law will unfold and what impact it will have on various sectors in New York City.

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