New Jersey Expands Paid Family Leave For Parents, Caretakers
PISCATAWAY, N.J. (CBSNewYork) - A bill expanding family leave became law in the New Jersey Tuesday.
The measure allows employees to take more time off without risking their jobs.
Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation at the JFK Library which would give people more time to take care of a sick family member by doubling family leave, reports CBS2's Jenna DeAngelis.
Watch: Gov. Murphy Signs Bill Expanding Family Leave
The legislation which was voted on last month allows certain employees to take leave without the risk of losing their jobs in cases such as care of a newborn, adopted child or relative with a serious health condition requiring medical supervision.
It allows an employee 12 weeks off, which is double the amount allowed under the current law.
Some businesses have expressed concerns that this will come at a cost to them, resulting in paying more in overtime or hiring more employees.
Murphy tweeted about the plan calling it "a huge win for working families and our economy."
On Tuesday in Piscataway, I'll sign into law sweeping legislation expanding paid family leave, a huge win for working families and our economy.
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) February 15, 2019
No one should have to choose between earning a paycheck and spending time with a newborn child or caring for an ailing relative.
"No one should have to choose between earning a paycheck and spending time with a newborn child or caring for an ailing relative," he said.