New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill AR83

Introduced
2/14/22  

Caption

Urges Congress to pass "Pregnant Workers Fairness Act."

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the inadequacies of the federal 'Pregnancy Discrimination Act' (PDA), which fails to ensure that employers make reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers. Currently, many employers may refuse accommodations even with doctor's recommendations, leading to substantial barriers within the workplace. If adopted, the PWFA would require employers to provide reasonable accommodations for workers affected by pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, thereby supporting the retention of pregnant employees in the workforce and reducing instances of unjust terminations.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 83 urges the United States Congress to pass the 'Pregnant Workers Fairness Act' (PWFA), which is designed to address the issue of pregnancy discrimination in the workplace. This resolution highlights that pregnancy discrimination is a significant issue, affecting many working women who encounter negative consequences in their jobs as a result of their pregnancy status. It points out that a high percentage of Americans have witnessed such discrimination, reflecting a widespread societal problem.

Contention

While the proposed act is seen as a necessary step forward, discussions around it touch on the ongoing struggle against pregnancy discrimination. Supporters argue that the act will create a necessary national standard to protect pregnant workers effectively, whereas critics of the current laws point to the frustration pregnant workers face when seeking legal remedy under the PDA, which is often interpreted to their disadvantage. Additionally, the resolution calls for clarity in employers' obligations, signifying the importance of a supportive legislative framework in nurturing a fair working environment.

Companion Bills

NJ SR54

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

Previously Filed As

NJ H1206

Pregnant Workers Fairness Act/Funds

NJ AJR6

Urges Congress to extend the Social Security Fairness Act. (BDR R-32)

NJ ACR43

Urges President and Congress to enact legislation amending "Civil Rights Act of 1964" to protect worker's right to unionize.

NJ SR50

Urges Congress to pass federal "Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act."

NJ S588

Pregnant Workers Protection Act

NJ AR68

Urges Congress to pass "Afghan Adjustment Act."

NJ SR14

Urges Congress to pass "Safe and Open Streets Act."

NJ AR135

Urges Congress to pass "Improving Menopause Care for Veterans Act of 2025."

NJ ACR147

Urges United States Congress to pass "Universal School Meals Program Act."

NJ SCR45

Urges Congress to pass "Fix Our Forests Act."

Similar Bills

CA AB1098

California Education Interagency Council.

CA AB1784

Postsecondary education: nondiscrimination: pregnancy or pregnancy-related issues.

NJ S840

"Student-Parent Protection Act"; ensures equal rights and opportunities for parenting students enrolled in institutions of higher education.

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.

NC H940

Protection Against Pregnancy Discrimination

NC HB940

House Bill 940

IA SF12

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 288.)

IA HF103

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.