New Jersey Senate Bill S3521

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/28/24
• Refer: 6/28/24

Caption

Requires employer of volunteer first responder to provide employee with one additional paid sick day per benefit year for healthcare diagnostic testing.

Impact

With the intention of bolstering recruitment and retention rates among volunteer first responders, S3521 addresses growing concerns among emergency service organizations that are struggling to attract sufficient volunteers. By providing paid leave for necessary medical testing, the law aims to relieve the pressure on municipalities that otherwise might need to hire additional paid personnel due to declining volunteer numbers. This bill represents an acknowledgment of the vital role that volunteers play in local safety and response efforts.

Summary

Senate Bill S3521 mandates that employers in New Jersey must provide an additional paid sick day to employees who serve as volunteer first responders. This sick day is designated specifically for healthcare diagnostic testing that may be required as a consequence of their voluntary service. The bill seeks to ensure that volunteer first responders, who are essential for community safety, can adequately care for their health while fulfilling their roles, which include responding to emergencies such as fires and medical crises.

Contention

While the bill aims to support volunteer first responders, it may face scrutiny from businesses regarding the potential financial impacts of offering additional paid sick leave. Employers may be concerned about increased operational costs, particularly in sectors where volunteerism plays a significant role. Nevertheless, the bill supporters argue that enhancing the recruitment pool for volunteer first responders ultimately benefits the entire community, reducing strain on public resources and ensuring prompt emergency response capabilities.