UPDATE: Governor Corzine Signs Legislation to Add Gender Identity, Expression as a Protected Class Against Discrimination

GOVERNOR CORZINE SIGNS LEGISLATION TO ADD GENDER IDENTITY, EXPRESSION AS A PROTECTED CLASS AGAINST DISCRIMINATION

TRENTON - Governor Jon S. Corzine today signed legislation that amends the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJ-LAD) by adding “gender identity or expression” to the list of protected characteristics.

A characteristic protected under the NJ-LAD is one that cannot lawfully be used as a basis for employment, housing, public accommodation, and similar decisions.

“The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination is one of the most powerful tools we have in government to protect our citizens,” said Governor Corzine. “I am pleased to sign legislation to ensure gender identity or expression is a protected class against discrimination in New Jersey.”

The legislation (S362) was sponsored by Senators Ellen Karcher and Joseph F. Vitale, and Assemblymembers Reed Gusciora, John F. McKeon, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Joseph Vas.

The legislation takes effect in 180 days.

The Governor also signed legislation (S462) that requires independent contractors to submit to background checks to work within certain industries. The bill was sponsored by Senators Stephen M. Sweeney, John H. Adler and Barbara Buono, and Assemblymembers John J. Burzichelli, Douglas H. Fisher, and Neil M. Cohen.

Contacts: Anthony Coley
Brendan Gilfillan
Phone: 609-777-2600