New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2198

Introduced
1/13/26  
Refer
1/13/26  

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

The enactment of A2198 is anticipated to enhance employee protections significantly by expanding the conditions under which bereavement leave can be taken. Currently, employees are entitled to certain family leave protections, but the bill specifies additional circumstances that warrant leave, thereby acknowledging the emotional and psychological toll of such events. This change may lead to increased awareness and sensitivity surrounding issues of family loss in the workplace, potentially influencing employer policies and practices regarding bereavement leave.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2198, introduced in New Jersey, proposes significant amendments to the state's Family Leave Act and Temporary Disability Benefits Law, aimed at providing protected leave for employees experiencing bereavement. Specifically, the bill allows employees to take family leave in events such as the death of a child, miscarriage, stillbirth, or termination of a pregnancy for medical reasons. Additionally, it explicitly permits leave related to unsuccessful adoptions or fertility treatments, ensuring that employees can grieve these losses without fear of repercussions at work.

Contention

While the bill has many supporters who advocate for broader recognition of bereavement, there are concerns regarding its practical implementation. Some lawmakers may argue about the potential strain on business operations or the perceived burden on employers to accommodate these new leave provisions. However, proponents believe that the emotional needs of employees during such sensitive times should take precedence, showcasing a growing understanding of mental health in the work environment. The bill does not propose to increase the maximum amount of leave already provided by the Family Leave Act, helping to assuage fears about overwhelming workplace workloads.

Companion Bills

NJ A3505

Carry Over 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 S2978

Carry Over 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

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 S4056

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.