Balancing work and family responsibilities can be challenging, especially during major life events like childbirth, illness, or caregiving. Fortunately, the New Jersey Family Leave Act (NJFLA) provides job-protected leave to help workers manage these situations without fear of losing their jobs.
In 2024, significant updates were made to the New Jersey Family Leave Act, expanding coverage and clarifying employee rights. This guide explains those changes and what they mean for you. If you need help understanding your rights or filing a claim, contact the employment attorneys at Swartz Swidler at (856) 685-7420 for a free consultation today.
What is the New Jersey Family Leave Act?
The New Jersey Family Leave Act protects eligible employees by granting up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 24-month period to:
- Care for a newborn, adopted, or foster child.
- Provide care for a family member with a serious health condition.
- Respond to public health emergencies, including pandemics.
Who is Covered?
- Employers with 30 or more employees must comply.
- Employees who have worked 1,000 hours over the last 12 months are eligible.
Unlike the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the New Jersey Family Leave Act covers more family relationships and includes part-time workers.
Key Updates to the New Jersey Family Leave Act in 2024
1. Expanded Definitions of Family Members
Update: The definition of “family member” now includes siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, and close personal relationships.
What This Means for You:
You can take leave to care for extended relatives or close associates who are like family. If your leave request is denied, contact a New Jersey family leave lawyer to fight for your rights.
2. Flexible Intermittent Leave Options
Update: Employees can now take intermittent leave in smaller increments instead of full days or weeks.
What This Means for You:
This update allows better options for balancing caregiving and work without taking long periods off. Work with HR to arrange a flexible schedule. If disputes arise, consult a New Jersey employment attorney.
3. Coverage for Remote Workers
Update: The New Jersey Family Leave Act now explicitly includes remote employees working for companies with 30 or more employees nationwide.
What This Means for You:
Remote and hybrid workers now have the same legal protections as in-office employees. Call Swartz Swidler at (856) 685-7420 if your employer disputes eligibility.
4. Expanded Job Protections for Part-Time Workers
Update: Part-time and temporary employees now qualify if they’ve worked 1,000 hours in the past 12 months.
What This Means for You:
Broader access to leave is now available for seasonal and hourly employees. If eligibility is challenged, contact a New Jersey employment lawyer to defend your rights.
How Does the New Jersey Family Leave Act Compare to FMLA?
| Feature | NJFLA | FMLA |
|---|---|---|
| Employer Size | 30+ employees | 50+ employees |
| Eligible Workers | 1,000+ hours in 12 months | 1,250+ hours in 12 months |
| Covered Relationships | Includes extended relatives and close ties | Immediate family only |
| Leave Duration | 12 weeks in 24 months | 12 weeks in 12 months |
If you’re unsure whether NJFLA or FMLA applies to your situation, call Swartz Swidler at (856) 685-7420 for guidance.
FAQs About the New Jersey Family Leave Act
1. Does the New Jersey Family Leave Act provide paid leave?
No, leave under NJFLA is unpaid, but you may qualify for Paid Family Leave Insurance through New Jersey.
2. Can my employer deny my leave request?
Employers must comply with the New Jersey Family Leave Act if eligibility requirements are met. If your request is denied, contact Swartz Swidler for legal assistance.
3. Can I take leave under NJFLA for my own health condition?
No, NJFLA only applies to family caregiving. For personal health issues, consider applying for FMLA or Temporary Disability Benefits in New Jersey.
4. Can my employer retaliate if I request leave?
No. Retaliation, including termination, demotion, or pay cuts, is illegal under the NJFLA. Call (856) 685-7420 if you face retaliation.
Why Choose Swartz Swidler?
At Swartz Swidler, LLC, our New Jersey employment lawyers have recovered millions in settlements for workers facing discrimination, retaliation, and leave disputes.
What Sets Us Apart?
- Local Expertise: Decades of experience in New Jersey employment law.
- Proven Results: Successfully defended countless workers.
- No Fees Unless You Win: We only get paid if you recover compensation.
Call a New Jersey Family Leave Attorney Today
If you need legal advice about the New Jersey Family Leave Act, don’t wait. Protect your rights and job security by speaking with the experienced attorneys at Swartz Swidler.
Call (856) 685-7420 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation today.
Let us help you navigate the NJFLA and fight for the protection you deserve!
