This bill establishes an Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within each State department or agency in New Jersey. Each office will be headed by a Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, appointed by the head of the respective department or agency, or by the Governor for independent authorities. The officer will be responsible for administering the office's work, which includes engaging in programs and initiatives that promote cross-cultural education and employee engagement, analyzing data related to diversity and inclusion, and advising on improvements to operational processes to align with best practices in these areas. The bill emphasizes the importance of considering candidates' lived experiences or work with diversity, equity, and inclusion during hiring for office staff.
Additionally, the office is tasked with developing and delivering tailored training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and it will utilize its data to inform the State's efforts to advance equity and inclusion, strictly adhering to State and federal laws. Importantly, the office is prohibited from using or sharing data for civil immigration enforcement purposes. The bill aims to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace across State departments and agencies, with the provisions taking effect immediately upon enactment.