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On March 13, 2026, the New Jersey Legislature made history by passing a landmark civil rights bill that extends protections to individuals based on gender identity and sexual orientation. The bill, known as the Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act, aims to ensure equal rights and protections for all residents of the state, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.The bill, which was introduced by State Senator Emma Rodriguez and State Assemblywoman Michael Williams, garnered strong bipartisan support in both chambers of the Legislature. In a 35-5 vote in the Senate and a 65-15 vote in the Assembly, lawmakers overwhelmingly approved the measure, signaling a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in the state.Under the new law, discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation is prohibited in areas such as employment, housing, public accommodations, and credit. This means that individuals cannot be denied employment or housing, or be subjected to harassment or discrimination, based on their gender identity or sexual orientation.Advocates for the bill hailed its passage as a major victory for civil rights in New Jersey. "This legislation sends a clear message that all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, deserve to be treated with dignity and respect," said Senator Rodriguez. "It is a critical step towards ensuring that all residents of our state have the same rights and protections under the law."The bill now heads to the desk of Governor Rachel Johnson, who has expressed her support for the measure and is expected to sign it into law. Once signed, the Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act will take effect immediately, providing much-needed protections for LGBTQ+ individuals across the state.In a statement following the bill's passage, Governor Johnson praised the Legislature for taking a stand for equality and reaffirming New Jersey's commitment to upholding the rights of all its residents. "By extending protections to gender identity and sexual orientation, we are sending a powerful message that discrimination has no place in our state," she said. "I look forward to signing this bill into law and ensuring that all New Jerseyans are treated fairly and equally under the law."