It has been nearly a decade since New Jersey became the second state in the nation to implement a paid family leave insurance program. However, many New Jerseyans still don't know this benefit exists or face barriers that make the program difficult to utilize. AARP New Jersey is pursuing legislation that will improve the law so that more family caregivers can access the family leave they deserve.

Currently, the New Jersey Family Leave Insurance program gives Garden State workers the opportunity to take time off of work and spend needed time with their family. Whether they are caring for a new child or for a sick family member, paid family leave can be a lifesaver for working caregivers in our state. All New Jersey workers pay taxes to support the program, about $30 this year - —a modest price to pay for giving family caregivers the support they need. However, less than 1% of eligible workers have utilized the benefit.

That’s why AARP New Jersey is fighting to update the Family Leave Act law with common sense improvements that will give more family caregivers access to this essential program.

New Jersey is home to 1.1 million family caregivers who help their parents, spouses and other loved ones remain at home, where they want to be. Caregivers are the backbone of the long-term services and supports system—providing over $13 billion in unpaid care while also juggling full or part-time jobs.

This bill (S2528/A3975) will give them:

  • More time to take care of their family, increasing time-off from 6 weeks to 12 weeks
  • More of their wages, increasing the wage replacement workers can receive from 66.7% of their average weekly wage up to 85%, subject to a maximum of 70% of the statewide average weekly wage
  • More job protection, protecting people working at businesses with 30 or more employees from job loss due to utilizing the program—as opposed to 50 or more employees
  • More inclusive standards, expanding the definition of family—allowing for caregivers to care for loved ones who are the equivalent to family
  • More insight and awareness, increasing outreach and education by $1.2 million in funding to ensure New Jersey workers know the program is available to them

Family caregivers take on physical and emotional challenges in the name of love. You can help give them workplace flexibility and support.

The expansion of New Jersey's Family Leave Act will help caregivers balance home and work responsibilities and continue our state efforts to give workers what they need to care for their loved ones and themselves.

Tell your legislator to vote yes on S2528/ A3975 and expand the Family Leave Insurance Program in New Jersey. Learn more at aarp.org/njcaregiving.

More From New Jersey 101.5 FM