The proposed bill establishes the Department of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DDEI) as a principal department within the Executive Branch of the State Government, appointing a Commissioner to oversee its operations. The DDEI will be responsible for administering diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across state agencies, consulting on investment and procurement practices, and managing the Small Business Registration and Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Certification Services Unit. The bill mandates the development of strategic plans for diversity and inclusion within state agencies and requires entities receiving state financial assistance to implement their own plans, emphasizing equitable employment opportunities and the collection of demographic data to measure progress.

Additionally, the bill transfers the Division on Civil Rights from the Department of Law and Public Safety to the DDEI, consolidating efforts to combat discrimination based on various characteristics, including race, gender identity, and disability. It outlines the powers and responsibilities of the Commissioner and the division, including conducting investigations and enforcing compliance with anti-discrimination laws. The bill also modifies existing civil rights legislation to enhance protections against discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations, while ensuring that individuals can file complaints directly in Superior Court. Overall, the legislation aims to foster a more inclusive and equitable workforce within state government and its associated entities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:32-23.1, 10:5-5, 10:5-6, 10:5-7, 10:5-10, 10:5-11, 10:5-12, 10:5-13, 10:5-14, 10:5-15, 10:5-17, 10:5-18, 10:5-26