New Jersey Assembly Bill A4985

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/15/22
• Refer: 12/15/22

Caption

Extends family leave protections to certain employees following death of family member.

Impact

The bill is significant in that it explicitly recognizes bereavement as a valid reason for taking family leave, extending the state's commitment to supporting employees through personal crises. Currently, the Family Leave Act allows for leave concerning medical needs, child placement, or adoption, but A4985 adds bereavement, thereby legitimizing the emotional and psychological needs of employees grieving for a deceased family member. This could set a precedent for how states and employers acknowledge family health and well-being.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4985 introduces provisions to extend family leave protections to employees in New Jersey following the death of a family member, as well as in cases of miscarriage or stillbirth. This amendment to the existing Family Leave Act (P.L.1989, c.261) allows eligible employees to access up to 12 weeks of leave within a 24-month period without the risk of losing their jobs. The bill applies to employers with at least 30 employees or to government entities, irrespective of their size, ensuring broader coverage for families in need during critical times of loss.

Contention

Discussion surrounding the bill may lead to contention regarding the implications for employers, particularly small businesses that may struggle to accommodate additional leave provisions. There could be concerns about the economic impact of allowing extended leave for bereavement and the potential for abuse of the leave system. However, proponents argue that the mental health benefits and the necessity for families to grieve properly outweigh any operational challenges faced by employers. How employers navigate this new requirement, including possible necessary accommodations, could remain a contentious topic post-enactment.