Prohibits employers from inquiring about gender of job applicants under certain circumstances.

New Jersey Assembly Bill A1401 prohibits employers with 15+ employees in the state from asking about an applicant's gender during the initial job application process (from first contact until the first interview). It bans both written application questions and oral inquiries about gender at this stage and prevents employers from using gender in hiring decisions or taking adverse actions based on gender. Exceptions apply only for roles where gender is a bona fide occupational qualification (e.g., gender-specific roles in shelters or performances). Violations carry civil penalties up to $10,000 per offense, enforced by the Labor Commissioner. The bill affects all covered employers in New Jersey, including state agencies, but does not restrict gender inquiries after the initial application phase or for roles where gender is a required qualification.