The New Jersey Paid Prenatal Personal Leave Act mandates that all employers in the state provide eligible employees with a minimum of 20 hours of paid prenatal personal leave each calendar year. This leave is specifically designated for health care services related to an employee's pregnancy, including medical appointments and discussions with health care providers. Employees can take this leave in one-hour increments and will receive compensation at their regular pay rate. Importantly, employers are prohibited from penalizing or retaliating against employees for taking or requesting this leave, and they are not required to compensate employees for any unused leave upon separation from employment.

The bill also empowers the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development to establish rules and regulations for its implementation, including penalties for non-compliance by employers. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on January 1, 2026, allowing time for necessary administrative preparations. Overall, this legislation aims to support employees during their pregnancy by ensuring access to paid leave for essential health care services.