New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill SR54

Introduced
2/14/22  

Caption

Urges Congress to pass "Pregnant Workers Fairness Act."

Impact

The PWFA seeks to remedy shortcomings in the existing federal 'Pregnancy Discrimination Act' (PDA). Currently, the PDA does not sufficiently compel employers to make reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers. As a result, over 250,000 pregnant employees are denied accommodation requests each year, leading to preventable job terminations. If enacted, the PWFA would require employers to provide necessary accommodations for employees impacted by pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, allowing them to maintain their employment without undue health risks or fear of losing pay and benefits.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 54 urges the United States Congress to pass the 'Pregnant Workers Fairness Act' (PWFA), addressing the pressing issue of pregnancy discrimination in the workplace. The resolution highlights that pregnancy discrimination often results in negative employment consequences, with a notable statistic indicating that 62 percent of Americans have witnessed such discrimination. This highlights a substantial societal concern regarding the treatment of pregnant workers and the lack of adequate legal protections.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SR54 serves as a clarion call for Congress to enact stronger protections for pregnant workers through the PWFA. While it acknowledges existing state laws providing similar safeguards, the resolution emphasizes the need for a national standard to enhance workplace equality. The concern for pregnant employees remains significant, and in light of widespread acknowledgment of discrimination against this demographic, the push for the PWFA reflects broader efforts toward achieving fair treatment in employment.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention is the urgency for a federal standard to ensure consistent protections for pregnant workers, especially since 27 states, including New Jersey, already have varying laws on this issue. Opponents of the extended federal mandate might argue that additional regulations could impose further burdens on businesses, particularly small employers who may struggle with compliance. Nevertheless, proponents contend that the ability for pregnant workers to remain in their positions with appropriate accommodations is a fundamental worker's right that must be upheld across all states.

Companion Bills

NJ AR83

Same As Urges Congress to pass "Pregnant Workers Fairness Act."

Previously Filed As

NJ AR83

Urges Congress to pass "Pregnant Workers Fairness Act."

NJ AR44

Urges Congress to pass "Pregnant Workers Fairness Act."

NJ HB1361

Mississippi Pregnant Workers Fairness Act; create.

NJ HB1046

Mississippi Pregnant Workers Fairness Act; create.

NJ SB2046

Mississippi Pregnant Workers Fairness Act; create.

NJ SB2114

Mississippi Pregnant Workers Fairness Act; create.

NJ SR110

Urges Congress and President enact "Social Security Fairness Act."

NJ AR145

Urges Congress and President enact "Social Security Fairness Act."

NJ HCR151

Urging Congress to pass H.R. 7, the Paycheck Fairness Act.

NJ HB1

Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, to provide workplace protections against pregnancy discrimination and related medical conditions, Secs. 25-15-1 to 25-15-7, inclusive, added; Secs. 25-2-2, 25-2-7 am'd.

Similar Bills

NJ AR83

Urges Congress to pass "Pregnant Workers Fairness Act."

NJ AR44

Urges Congress to pass "Pregnant Workers Fairness Act."

CA AB1098

Postsecondary education: undergraduate and graduate students: pregnancy or pregnancy-related issues.

US HB6914

Pregnant Students’ Rights Act

CA AB809

Public postsecondary education: child development programs: priority enrollment: Title IX protection: pregnancy and parental status.

IA SF288

A bill for an act relating to students who are pregnant or who recently gave birth who attend state institutions of higher education governed by the board of regents and community colleges. (Formerly SF 12.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.

IA SF58

A bill for an act relating to students who are pregnant or who recently gave birth who attend state institutions of higher education governed by the board of regents and community colleges.(See SF 252.)

IA SF252

A bill for an act relating to students who are pregnant or who recently gave birth who attend state institutions of higher education governed by the board of regents and community colleges.(Formerly SF 58.)