The bill amends the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) to enhance protections for immigrants and non-U.S. citizens by explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on immigration status and citizenship status, which are now included in the list of protected categories alongside race, creed, color, national origin, and others. It clarifies that distinctions can be made between U.S. citizens and non-citizens when required by federal law or to promote national interest. The bill also modifies the definitions of "unlawful discrimination" and "employer" to ensure comprehensive coverage of these protections, while affirming the civil rights of individuals to obtain employment and access public accommodations without facing discrimination based on these newly included characteristics.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that allow individuals to seek back pay for continuous violations of discrimination in compensation for up to six years and prohibits employers from requiring employees to waive any protections under the law. It outlines specific unlawful practices related to discrimination in various contexts, such as housing and employment, and emphasizes that discriminatory statements or advertisements will be considered presumptive evidence of authorization by responsible parties. The legislation aims to strengthen anti-discrimination measures, promote equality, and ensure broader protections for individuals facing discrimination in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 10:5-3, 10:5-4, 10:5-5, 10:5-6, 10:5-8, 10:5-9.1, 10:5-10, 10:5-12