New Jersey Assembly Bill A4852

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/23/24
• Refer: 9/23/24

Caption

Establishes workplace policies on employees' right to disconnect from work.

Impact

If enacted, A4852 would require both public and private employers in New Jersey to implement specific policies delineating when employees are off-duty and can defer work-related communications. Employers must document nonworking hours through a written agreement with employees. This bill is intended to promote mental health and well-being, giving employees the freedom to disconnect from work pressures outside of their scheduled hours.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4852, introduced by Assemblywoman Heather Simmons, establishes workplace policies that affirm employees' right to disconnect from work communications during nonworking hours. The bill defines 'nonworking hours' as the time periods before and after an employee’s scheduled work hours, allowing employees to ignore employer communications unless an emergency arises. The objective is to create boundaries for work-life balance, especially in a time where digital communication blurs these lines.

Contention

The bill could be contentious given the varying opinions on the balance between business needs and employee rights. Some businesses may view such regulations as overly restrictive, fearing they could complicate operations, particularly in urgent situations. Conversely, advocates for the bill assert that it is crucial for ensuring that workers maintain a healthy work-life balance and should not be tethered to work continuously. The complaint process allows employees to report violations of this right, potentially leading to civil penalties for non-compliant employers.