Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division on Civil Rights (DCR) have issued a Finding of Probable Cause against Adoni Property Group, LLC, and Legacy Realty Group for allegedly violating the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD). The allegations concern restrictive minimum-income requirements imposed on an affordable rental unit that reportedly had an unlawful disparate impact based on race and national origin.

The case involves policies by Adoni Property Group, which owns an apartment building in Avenel, New Jersey, and Legacy Realty Group, its leasing agent. These policies required prospective tenants to show a monthly after-tax income three times the rent and a bank account balance five times the rent. This policy led to the denial of a Black woman's application for an affordable unit.

The complainant's income qualified her for affordable housing under state guidelines. However, she was denied because her income did not meet Adoni and Legacy's requirements. DCR found evidence suggesting these requirements disproportionately excluded low-income Black and Hispanic applicants.

Attorney General Platkin stated: “Our civil rights laws prohibit housing providers from imposing screening barriers that result in discriminatory denials of housing to low-income New Jerseyans.” Sundeep Iyer, Director of DCR, added: “Today’s announcement underscores that unduly restrictive minimum-income requirements may violate our antidiscrimination laws.”

DCR's investigation indicated that the policies were not necessary to achieve legitimate interests of ensuring tenants can pay rent. Alternatives could include focusing on before-tax income or considering prior rental history.

The Finding of Probable Cause is not a final decision but indicates sufficient evidence for suspicion of LAD violation. The parties may negotiate a resolution; if unsuccessful, prosecution will proceed in Superior Court or the Office of Administrative Law.

For more information or to file complaints regarding discrimination under LAD, individuals can visit DCR's website or call their hotline.