ASSEMBLY LABOR COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 2145

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  FEBRUARY 20, 2025

      The Assembly Labor Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 2145.

      This bill establishes employment protections for paid first responders who are diagnosed with certain cases of work-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

      Under the bill, an employer would be prohibited from discharging, harassing, or otherwise discriminating against an employee, or threatening to do so, with respect to the compensation, terms, conditions, duties, or privileges of employment on the basis that the employee took or requested any leave related to a qualifying diagnosis of PTSD.

      The bill provides that if an employer violates its provisions, an employee or former employee would be authorized to institute a civil action in the Superior Court for relief. All remedies available in common law tort actions would be available to a prevailing plaintiff. Additionally, the bill provides that a court would be authorized to order any or all of the following relief:

      (1)  an assessment of a civil fine of $5,000 and $10,000 for each subsequent violation;

      (2)  an injunction to restrain the continued violation of any of the provisions of the bill;

      (3)  reinstatement of the employee to the same position or to a position equivalent to that which the employee held prior to unlawful discharge or retaliatory action;

      (4)  reinstatement of full fringe benefits and seniority rights;

      (5)  compensation for any lost wages, benefits and other remuneration; or

      (6)  payment of reasonable costs and attorney's fees.