New Jersey Family Leave Act (NJFLA)
The NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 24-month period. This leave can be used to care for a newborn, an adopted or foster child, or a family member with a serious health condition. Unlike the FMLA, the NJFLA does not cover leave for the employee’s own medical condition.
To qualify, you must work for a company with 30 or more employees and have been employed for at least 12 months, with at least 1,000 hours worked in the past year. Covered family members include parents, children, spouses, and civil union partners. As of recent updates, siblings, grandparents, and parents-in-law may also be included under certain conditions.
Federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
The FMLA provides similar protections at the federal level, allowing eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in a 12-month period for more varied reasons, including:
- The birth and care of a newborn
- Adoption or foster care placement
- Care for a seriously ill family member
- The employee’s own serious health condition
- Certain exigencies related to a family member’s military service
To qualify, you must work for an employer with 50 or more employees and have worked 1,250 hours over the past 12 months.
Paid Leave Options
New Jersey also offers Family Leave Insurance (FLI) and Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), which provide partial wage replacement for employees taking time off for qualifying family or medical reasons. These programs are funded through payroll deductions, and eligible employees can receive up to 85% of their average weekly wage, up to a maximum amount set annually.
Final Thoughts
Knowing your rights under the NJFLA and FMLA can empower you to take the necessary time to handle life’s challenges without fear of losing your job. Before taking leave, consult your HR department and review your eligibility. For complex situations, speaking with a labor attorney or contacting the New Jersey Department of Labor can provide additional clarity.
Taking care of yourself and your loved ones shouldn’t cost you your livelihood—and in New Jersey, the law is on your side.