This bill mandates that within 180 days of its effective date, all paid or part-paid fire departments or forces in New Jersey must adopt, review, and update at least annually a policy addressing job-related issues for pregnant firefighters. The policy must cover various aspects, including the disclosure of pregnancy, the issuance of medical certificates regarding job-related limitations, and the availability of light-duty or non-hazardous assignments. Additionally, it should inform pregnant firefighters about when certain job tasks may not be suitable, the use of leave time for pregnancy, and the continuation of employee benefits.
The bill emphasizes that the development of this policy should be guided by the standards set forth by the National Fire Protection Association or similar professional organizations that focus on the job-related issues affecting pregnant firefighters. This initiative aims to ensure that pregnant members of fire departments are supported and informed regarding their rights and responsibilities in the workplace.