TRENTON – The Senate passed legislation sponsored by Senators Andrew Zwicker and Angela McKnight, which would prohibit discrimination on the basis of height or weight under the “Law Against Discrimination.”

“True equality in the workplace means ensuring that every New Jerseyan is judged by their talent, hard work, and character—not by a number on a scale or a measurement on a wall,” said Senator Zwicker (D-Middlesex/Mercer/ Somerset/Hunterdon). “By amending the Law Against Discrimination, we are closing a loophole that has allowed arbitrary physical traits to overshadow professional merit for far too long.”

The bill, S-1631, would add height and weight to the list of protected qualities, under civil rights law, which currently includes, but is not limited to, race, creed, color, sexual orientation, familial status, disability, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, nationality, sex, gender identity or expression and, source of lawful income used for rental or mortgage payments.

“There is a significant amount of people who believe they have lost out on opportunities due to their physical appearance,” said Senator Angela McKnight (D-Hudson). “Despite this, preventing discrimination based on height or weight has often been left out of efforts to create a more inclusive society. This legislation addresses that omission and protects more individuals from biased behavior.”

Under the bill, exceptions would be provided only for employment and public accommodations for bona fide occupational qualifications and safety reasons.

The bill was passed in a 23-14 vote.