Requires employers within construction industry to notify employees of certain rights.
Impact
If enacted, S2758 will influence how construction employers operate within New Jersey by establishing clear requirements for employee notifications. Employers will have to post these notifications conspicuously in accessible locations at their worksites, and they must provide written copies to employees during hiring or upon request. This additional layer of communication aims to enhance overall employee awareness regarding their rights and protections under labor laws, specifically targeted at reducing incidents of misinformation and non-compliance within the industry.
Summary
Senate Bill S2758, introduced in New Jersey's 221st Legislature, mandates that employers within the construction industry notify their employees of certain rights. This requirement includes the posting of a notification related to employees' rights concerning unemployment benefits, minimum wage, overtime, and other federal and state workplace protections. The bill builds on the existing Construction Industry Independent Contractor Act, ensuring that workers are informed about their rights and can contact the appropriate state representatives regarding any violations of these rights.
Contention
Notably, the bill includes specific penalties for employers who fail to comply with these notification requirements, classifying such violations as disorderly persons offenses. The penalties can reach up to $1,500 for first offenses and $5,000 for subsequent violations within a five-year period. This aspect could create contention, as some may argue that these penalties are too severe while others may see them as necessary for ensuring compliance and protecting employee rights. Furthermore, the requirement to provide notifications in multiple languages, including Spanish, raises concerns about the operational burden on employers, especially smaller contractors.
Provides for licensing and regulation of individuals and entities as health insurance navigators for a health benefit exchange (RR1 +$44,000 SG EX See Note)