Legislation would allow collection of information that can help public colleges and universities in the state better serve LGBT students

(TRENTON) – An Assembly panel on Thursday released legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Mila Jasey (D-Essex/Morris) that would allow students, faculty, and staff at public colleges and universities in the state to identify their sexual orientation and gender identity on demographic forms used by the schools to collect data on gender, race or ethnicity.

“Having this information can help colleges and universities track enrollment, academic success and retention rates for LGBT students. This can help identify any areas of need, and ensure these students are getting the support services and resources necessary to thrive academically,” said Jasey.

The bill (A-3739) would require public institutions of higher education to allow students, faculty, and staff to identify their sexual orientation and gender identity on any forms used by the institution to collect demographic data on gender, race, or ethnicity. The bill specifies that the requirement is for all forms that are created or updated after the bill’s effective date. The institutions are not required to update any existing forms solely to comply with the new requirement.

The bill would take effect immediately and first apply to the 2018-2019 academic year.

The bill was released by the Assembly Higher Education Committee, which Jasey chairs.