New Jersey Senate Bill S2919

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/24
• Refer: 3/7/24
• Report Pass: 5/6/24
• Refer: 5/6/24

Caption

Requires employer to provide certain accommodations to employee who is breast feeding.

Impact

The enactment of S2919 would lead to significant changes in the current labor laws in New Jersey, specifically within the 'Law Against Discrimination'. By formally highlighting the necessity of supporting breastfeeding in the workplace, it broadens the protective measures for working mothers, ensuring they have the right to express milk during work hours without fear of retaliation or discrimination. This action serves to create a more inclusive workplace culture for new mothers and may influence employer policies across various industries.

Summary

Senate Bill S2919 addresses the need for accommodations for employees who are breastfeeding. This legislation mandates that employers must provide necessary support for lactating employees, which includes reasonable break times for milk expression as well as job restructuring and modified work schedules when required. This bill is aimed at enhancing workplace conditions for mothers, ensuring they can balance their professional and maternal responsibilities without facing discrimination or undue hardship.

Contention

While the bill is largely welcomed, debates surrounding it focus on the potential burden it may place on employers, particularly smaller businesses that may lack the resources to provide private facilities or make significant adjustments to work schedules. Proponents argue that the health and welfare of mothers and children outweigh the costs associated with compliance, challenging opponents to consider the long-term benefits of supporting breastfeeding in reducing health issues and promoting family well-being.