This bill amends the New Jersey Family Leave Act to expand the definition of "family leave" to include bereavement leave specifically for the loss of a child. Employees will now be able to take leave for bereavement due to the death or stillbirth of a child, miscarriage (including chemical, ectopic, and molar pregnancies), or termination of a pregnancy for medical reasons, as well as for failed fertility treatments. The bill allows for up to 21 days of leave for bereavement circumstances not covered by other leave types and up to 7 days for situations that qualify under existing laws. Additionally, it introduces new certification requirements for bereavement leave, simplifying the process by only requiring the date of the event for certain circumstances.

Furthermore, the bill amends the Temporary Disability Benefits Law to clarify definitions and eligibility for "covered individuals" and "covered employers," allowing employers to opt into coverage for at least two years. It mandates that covered individuals, including state employees, must exhaust their sick leave before receiving benefits, with some exceptions. The legislation also expands the definition of "disability" to include illnesses related to communicable diseases during a state of emergency and introduces specific provisions for bereavement leave, limiting the duration of benefits based on the circumstances. Overall, the bill aims to enhance support for employees facing temporary disabilities and family-related challenges, particularly in the context of child loss and reproductive health issues.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:11B-3, 34:11B-4, 43:21-27