This bill amends existing New Jersey law to eliminate the exclusion of affectional or sexual orientation and gender identity or expression from affirmative action programs related to public works contracts. Specifically, it modifies Section 2 of P.L.1975, c.127 (C.10:5-32) to ensure that no public works contract can be awarded unless the contractor guarantees equal opportunity in accordance with an affirmative action program that includes these categories. Additionally, it revises Section 3 (C.10:5-33) to require contractors to take affirmative action to prevent discrimination based on these identities, alongside other protected categories, during employment practices.

Furthermore, the bill updates Section 4 (C.10:5-34) to mandate that all prospective bidders submit an affirmative action program that guarantees employment opportunities for minorities, including those identified by their affectional or sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. The State Treasurer is tasked with approving these programs within 60 days of submission. The bill is set to take effect 120 days after enactment, allowing for necessary administrative preparations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 10:5-32, 10:5-33, 10:5-34