New Jersey Governor Jon S. Corzine has signed legislation that adds "gender identity or expression" to the list of characteristics protected under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJ-LAD).

A characteristic protected under the NJ-LAD is one that cannot lawfully be used as a basis for employment, housing, public accommodation, and similar decisions.

"The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination is one of the most powerful tools we have in government to protect our citizens," says Corzine. 

The legislation (S362) was sponsored by Senators Ellen Karcher and Joseph F. Vitale, and Assemblymembers Reed Gusciora, John F. McKeon, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Joseph Vas.

The legislation takes effect in 180 days.