New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy (D) signed legislation Tuesday that will double paid family leave time in the state.
The bill allows workers to take 12 weeks of paid time off after childbirth or to care for a sick family member, increases maximum pay under the leave program from $650 to $860 and makes benefits available to those assisting a broader range of family members.
“No one should ever be forced to choose between caring for a family member and earning a paycheck,” Murphy said in a statement.
“By providing the most expansive paid family leave time and benefits in the nation, we are ensuring that New Jerseyans no longer have to face such a decision and that working families are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. This comprehensive paid family leave program, coupled with the newly passed earned sick leave and minimum wage increase, are fundamental elements in building a stronger and fairer New Jersey for all working families.”
The new law will also increase allowed intermittent leave from 42 to 56 days per year, improve promotion of the paid family leave program and add anti-retaliation provisions for those who use the program.
Murphy has passed several pieces of legislation which he says are key to protecting working families.
In May, he approved a bill requiring employers to provide paid sick leave.
Earlier this month, Murphy signed legislation to gradually raise the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour. Currently at $8.85 an hour, the minimum wage will increase to $10 in July and go up $1 each subsequent year until it hits $15 in 2024.