TRENTON, NJ – Senator Troy Singleton, representing Burlington’s District 7, has introduced legislation aimed at expanding the Law Against Discrimination (LAD) to include members of labor organizations among protected classes. The bill, which revises the definition of “labor organization,” seeks to shield employees associated with unions and similar entities from discrimination.
Currently, the LAD provides robust protections against discrimination based on a range of characteristics, including race, gender identity, marital status, and more, in various areas such as employment and housing. Senator Singleton’s bill proposes to extend these protections to cover individuals due to their membership in labor organizations. This includes unions, employee representation committees, and any group involved in collective bargaining or addressing employment-related grievances and conditions.
The amendment aims to ensure that employees participating in or represented by labor organizations do not face discrimination for their involvement. By redefining “labor organization” to encompass a broader scope of employee groups, the bill underscores the importance of collective bargaining and mutual aid among workers in both public and private sectors.