New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3505

Introduced
2/5/24  
Refer
2/5/24  
Refer
6/6/24  
Report Pass
9/23/24  
Engrossed
9/26/24  
Refer
9/30/24  
Report Pass
12/5/24  

Caption

Establishes protected leave under "Family Leave Act" and family temporary disability leave benefits for bereavement for death of child, miscarriage, stillbirth, and certain other circumstances.

Impact

If enacted, A3505 would integrate new definitions and provisions related to bereavement leave into New Jersey state law, expanding the eligibility for family temporary disability benefits to include employees dealing with the loss of a child or undergoing experiences like miscarriage and stillbirth. This would mark a significant advancement in state labor laws, ensuring that employees have the necessary time and support to grieve and heal during such critical times. It would also remove barriers for individuals who previously had limited recourse when faced with these tragic scenarios.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3505 proposes the establishment of protected leave under the 'Family Leave Act' for bereavement associated with the death of a child, miscarriage, stillbirth, and similar circumstances. The bill aims to amend existing regulations to provide temporary disability leave benefits so that individuals coping with these significant emotional losses can take time away from work without fear of losing their job or income. This addition acknowledges the psychological strain associated with such experiences and aligns with broader societal shifts towards prioritizing mental health and family well-being.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding A3505 has been largely positive among its supporters, who advocate for greater compassion and understanding in workplace policies regarding family-related grievances. Proponents argue that this bill is essential in acknowledging the emotional and psychological impacts of losing a child. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the implications for businesses, particularly small employers, about potential increases in absenteeism and the administrative responsibilities that could accompany managing additional leave policies.

Contention

Notable points of contention have emerged, mainly focusing on the fiscal impact on businesses and the specifics of leave provisions. Critics may argue that while the intent of the bill is commendable, its implementation could place a strain on employers, particularly in sectors with limited staffing and resources. Furthermore, the definitions within the bill regarding what constitutes 'bereavement' may require careful consideration to ensure clarity and prevent misuse while maintaining sensitivity to those genuinely affected by such losses.

Companion Bills

NJ S2978

Same As Establishes protected leave under "Family Leave Act" and family temporary disability leave benefits for bereavement for death of child, miscarriage, stillbirth, and certain other circumstances.

NJ A5084

Carry Over Concerns bereavement leave for death of child, miscarriage, stillbirth, and certain other circumstances.

Previously Filed As

NJ A2198

Establishes protected leave under "Family Leave Act" and family temporary disability leave benefits for bereavement for death of child, miscarriage, stillbirth, and certain other circumstances.

NJ S2046

Establishes protected leave under "Family Leave Act" and family temporary disability leave benefits for bereavement for death of child, miscarriage, stillbirth, and certain other circumstances.

NJ A113

Concerns bereavement leave for miscarriage and stillbirth.

NJ S1869

Concerns bereavement leave for miscarriage and stillbirth.

NJ A1202

Revises calculation of daily benefit rate under temporary disability and family temporary disability leave.

NJ A2142

Allows for sharing of family leave benefits between covered individuals under certain circumstances.

NJ A3638

Provides family leave for employee to attend certain events of child of employee; establishes tax credits for employer that provide full paid family leave benefits.

NJ A2212

Requires distribution of family leave informational materials to certain patients.

NJ HB1241

Labor and Employment - Bereavement Leave and Leave for Family Illness - Qualifying Relationships and Type of Leave

NJ HB05763

An Act Concerning Compensation For Bereavement Leave Under The Paid Family And Medical Leave Insurance Program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.