This bill amends New Jersey's existing "Law Against Discrimination" to broaden the definition of discrimination in housing and employment contexts, specifically by including "source of lawful income used for rental or mortgage payments" as a protected category. It modifies Section 3 of P.L.1945, c.169 (C.10:5-3) to emphasize that discrimination based on this income source, alongside other categories such as race, creed, and disability, is a significant concern for the state. The bill also updates Section 5 of P.L.1945, c.169 (C.10:5-5) to clarify terms related to discrimination, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their income source, are protected from discrimination in housing, thereby promoting economic prosperity and general welfare.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions to enhance protections for older persons and individuals from diverse backgrounds, mandating that housing for older persons includes necessary facilities and services, with at least 80% of units occupied by individuals aged 55 or older. It establishes that discrimination based on lawful income sources and familial status is prohibited, ensuring equal housing opportunities for those relying on specific income sources. The bill also requires the Attorney General to adopt regulations to enforce these updated definitions and emphasizes the creation of a Division on Civil Rights to oversee compliance with anti-discrimination laws, ultimately aiming to foster a more inclusive environment in housing and employment.

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