Bill > A5499

This bill requires employers to provide one additional paid sick day per year to first responders specifically for healthcare diagnostic testing, after their first year of service. The term "first responder" includes paid law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics, and members of emergency medical associations. "Healthcare diagnostic testing" is defined as medical tests or procedures recommended by a healthcare provider to prevent or diagnose a condition related to the employee's first responder duties, with the specific conditions to be determined by the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development. The bill's rationale is to address recruitment challenges in emergency services by supporting first responders who may have been exposed to hazardous conditions during their work. The legislation recognizes the critical role first responders play in community safety and aims to encourage recruitment and retention by providing this additional benefit. The Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development is tasked with developing specific rules and regulations to implement the bill, and the act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5499