Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed a new law that would protect the rights of seniors living with HIV and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

The law combats discrimination and aims to reduce the isolation for those living with HIV.

“New York’s seniors should be able to live their lives with the dignity and respect they deserve, free from discrimination of every kind,” Hochul said in a statement. “LGBTQIA + and HIV-positive seniors are among our most vulnerable populations, and today we are taking steps to ensure that all New Yorkers – regardless of who they are, who they love or their HIV status – find safety and support in places where they need it the most. Hate will never have a place in New York.”

The law forbids long-term care facilities from denying admission based on HIV status, gender identity and sexual orientation.

They also can’t transfer or deny a transfer or evict a resident from a facility due to the person’s status.