11/12/2026
Apparently, New Jersey Democrats are pushing Assembly Bill A1146, which would define Islamophobia for use in civil and criminal discrimination cases, e.g., employment discrimination.
The bill identifies 13 examples:
1. Hatred or severe disparagement of Muslims or their culture.
2. Hostility or fear of Islam that creates fear or dislike of Muslims.
3. Discrimination, harassment, prejudice, or unequal treatment of Muslims.
4. Excluding Muslims from major political and social institutions.
5. Making false, dehumanizing, or stereotypical claims about Muslims, including political influence, terrorism, or demographic takeover.
6. Anti-Muslim rhetoric, violence, or actions targeting people, property, or religious institutions.
7. Verbal or physical abuse, spitting, or forcibly removing hijabs.
8. Encouraging or justifying harm or defamation based on Muslim identity.
9. Unfounded fear or dislike of Muslims resulting in discrimination or exclusion.
10. Blaming all Muslims for the actions of individuals or groups.
11. Accusing Muslim citizens of greater loyalty to a global Muslim community or their countries of origin.
12. Blaming Muslims collectively for actions committed by Muslim-majority countries.
13. Accusing Muslims of greater loyalty to foreign Muslim-majority countries than to America.
Supporters say A1146 would preserve First Amendment protections while helping authorities identify religious discrimination and protect Muslims. Critics argue that its broad definition could allow government officials to scrutinize constitutionally protected criticism of Islam.
Where does protecting people from discrimination end and policing opinions begin?
