SENATE LABOR COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

SENATE, No. 2689

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED: MARCH 2, 2026

      The Senate Labor Committee reports favorably Senate Bill No. 2689.

      This bill would clarify protections provided in the “Law Against Discrimination” to working mothers who are breast feeding.  Specifically, the bill provides that an employer is required to accommodate a lactating employee for as long as the employee desires.  Additionally, the bill clarifies that lactating employees are entitled to reasonable break time paid at the employee’s regular rate of compensation, job restructuring, and a modified work schedule for the purpose of milk expression.

      Further, the bill requires an employer to provide a suitable room or other location with privacy, free from intrusion of other employees or customers of the employer’s business, if applicable, other than a restroom, for the purpose of milk expression.

      This bill was prefiled for introduction in the 2026-2027 session pending technical review.  As reported, the bill includes the changes required by technical review, which has been performed.