New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2046

Introduced
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

By enacting S2046, employees will have access to family temporary disability leave benefits when grieving the loss of a child or dealing with issues related to miscarriage or unsuccessful adoption. However, the bill clarifies that it does not increase the maximum benefits available under existing family temporary disability leave provisions. Leave is structured in a way that allows for either 21 days for circumstances not qualifying under other types of leave or seven days for qualifying events. This refined approach offers clarity on the leave available to employees and helps address specific needs during emotional crises.

Summary

Senate Bill 2046 (S2046) aims to amend the New Jersey Family Leave Act to incorporate provisions for protected leave related to bereavement. Specifically, it seeks to extend leave benefits for employees who experience the loss of a child due to death, miscarriage, stillbirth, or the termination of a pregnancy for medical reasons. The inclusion of such circumstances recognizes the emotional toll of these events and ensures that employees have the opportunity to take bereavement leave without the fear of losing their jobs.

Contention

The proposal has sparked discussion on several fronts. Supporters argue it is a necessary step towards better recognizing the complexities of familial loss, while critics might express concerns about potential misuse of benefits or the adequacy of leave granted. As societal awareness of mental health and emotional well-being rises, the conversations surrounding S2046 reflect a move towards more comprehensive support structures for families undergoing significant personal loss. This bill highlights a shift in legislative priorities towards empathy in workplace policies.

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 A2198

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.