Sweeney-Diegnan-Ruiz Bill Expanding NJ’s Paid Family Leave Becomes Law

Puts NJ in National Forefront With Leave Time & Benefits 

Trenton – Legislation authored by Senate President Steve Sweeney, Senator Patrick Diegnan and Senator M. Teresa Ruiz that expands New Jersey’s Paid Family Leave Law that allows employees to take time off from work to care for a newborn or newly-adopted child, or for a sick parent, spouse or child was enacted into law today by Governor Phil Murphy.

The new law, S-2528/A-3975, will enhance the current insurance program with some of the lengthiest leave time and most generous benefits in the Nation.

“This will put New Jersey in the forefront of the Nation with a paid leave program that serves the needs of families and is good for businesses. Paid leave can ease financial burdens and provide peace of mind for working families at critical times in their lives. Caring for a newborn child or a loved one with a serious illness can be a real challenge for those who can’t afford to lose their paychecks for an extended amount of time.” Senator Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland), who authored the law creating the leave program in 2009.

“The expansion of the family leave program will provide greater security for a larger number of working families, who shouldn’t be forced to choose between caring for their loved ones and earning a paycheck. This is a compassionate program with real life benefits for those in need.” Senator Diegnan (D-Middlesex).

“Many of us have been working on aspects of paid family leave for a long time. For me, as a new parent, I was keenly aware of the areas where we could improve the resources available. Expanding the state’s paid family leave program will allow more new parents to take time off from work to bond with their newborn without having to sacrifice their financial stability.” Senator Ruiz (D-Essex).

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