The bill amends the Law Against Discrimination (LAD) to enhance protections for individuals based on their membership in labor organizations, classifying them as a protected class. It expands the definition of "labor organization" to include any group involved in collective bargaining or addressing grievances related to employment conditions, such as labor unions and employee representation committees. This change aims to ensure that individuals participating in these organizations are afforded the same protections against discrimination as those based on other characteristics like race, gender, and disability.

Additionally, the bill introduces new legal language that prohibits discrimination based on membership in a labor organization, liability for service in the Armed Forces, disability, nationality, or source of lawful income for rental or mortgage payments. It emphasizes that individuals cannot be denied housing or employment opportunities based on these newly included categories, while also reinforcing existing protections. The legislation aims to create a more inclusive environment by preventing discriminatory practices in employment, housing, and public accommodations, and it protects employees from reprisals for discussing compensation and other employment-related matters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 10:5-5, 10:5-12