Know your rights!

What is the Paid Sick Days Act?

It is a state law that guarantees workers sick days with job protection that are paid by the employer. Permissible uses include; recovery from illness, attending doctor’s appointments and caring for a sick family member or accompanying them to a doctor’s appointment, to attend children’s school meetings, to address issues related to domestic violence or sexual assault, as well as public health emergencies at work or your children’s school.

Who is covered?

ALL workers in New Jersey, including part-time and temporary workers. EXCEPTIONS: Public workers already receiving sick pay, certain health care workers, union construction workers and contractors.

How much sick time do I have and when can I use it?

Effective October 29, 2018, workers earn 1 hour for every 30 hours worked in NJ, up to at least 5 days (40 hours) in a year. Employers may elect to advance time at the beginning of the benefit year. The law requires that you be allowed to use any time accrued on or after February 26, 2019 (or 120 days after starting a new job, whichever date is later).

Which family members are covered?

Spouse, children, parents, grandparents, grandchildren, legal guardian, domestic or civil union partner, sibling, parent-in-law and brother-in-law (or the sibling or parent of the domestic or civil union partner) and individuals whose relationship is the equivalent of family. Family-equivalent individuals may include a close friend, roommate or neighbor.

You are protected.

All workers are protected from being fired, discriminated against or punished for using or requesting sick leave. Employers are not allowed to retaliate against workers who request or use sick time they have earned