NJ A3447

Prohibits New Jersey courts from using disability, age, health status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or ethnicity as the sole basis for granting or denying child custody or parenting time.

Requires courts to provide detailed findings of fact and conclusions of law if any of these protected factors are considered when making custody decisions for an otherwise fit parent.

Amends R.S.9:2-4 to add these protections while preserving the court's discretion to consider all relevant factors in determining the best interests of the child.

Defines "disability" using the federal Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (42 U.S.C. s.12102) definition.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment and applies to custody proceedings in the 222nd Legislature session (pre-filed for 2026).