The New Jersey Fair Workweek Act establishes comprehensive regulations aimed at improving employee rights concerning work schedules and pay, particularly for those in low-wage jobs. The Act mandates that employers with 250 or more employees must provide a written estimate of projected work schedules upon hiring and post schedules at least 14 days in advance. Employees have the right to request changes to their schedules, which employers must consider in good faith, and they can decline shifts scheduled less than 12 hours after their last shift without facing retaliation. Additionally, the Act emphasizes the importance of prioritizing existing employees for additional shifts before hiring new staff and introduces provisions for predictability pay for schedule changes made without adequate notice.

The legislation also strengthens protections against retaliation for employees asserting their rights under the Act, making it unlawful for employers to take adverse actions against those who request schedule changes or oppose unlawful practices. It allows for civil actions against employers for violations, with penalties imposed on a per-employee and per-instance basis. The bill clarifies definitions related to employees and employers, expands protections to individuals who allege violations in good faith, and ensures joint liability for wage law violations between client employers and labor contractors. Overall, the Fair Workweek Act aims to enhance job security and predictability for workers while holding employers accountable for compliance with labor laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:1A-1.11, 34:114.1, 34:114.10, 34:11-58.2