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Know Your Rights: Employee Protections

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. As the New Jersey economy reopens, many workers have questions about unemployment benefits, workplace health and safety, and caregiving.

  • Can my employer fire me if I miss work due to COVID-19? Do I have any civil rights protections against discrimination or harassment?

    Last Updated: 10/19/2021
    On March 20, 2020, Governor Murphy signed a law that prohibited an employer from firing or otherwise punishing an employee who requested time off or took time off from work based on a medical profe...
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  • Is there somewhere I can report violations of Executive Orders?

    Last Updated: 07/02/2021
    Compliance with Executive Orders is not voluntary. You can report a possible violation of all COVID-related Executive Orders using this online form: https://covid19.nj.gov/violation. If you believe...
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  • What types of benefits or assistance are available to me during the coronavirus outbreak?

    Last Updated: 03/02/2022
    Health Insurance: If you do not have health insurance, or lose coverage, you may be eligible for free or low-cost coverage through NJ FamilyCare, New Jersey's publicly funded health insurance progr...
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  • Are offices open? What safety precautions must they take? How do I safely return to work?

    Last Updated: 06/04/2021
    Office spaces, as with all workplaces that do not have walk-in customers or products for sale, were never closed. At indoor worksites closed to the public, employers may allow employees who can ver...
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  • What happens if I test positive? How long do I need to stay home?

    Last Updated: 09/28/2022
    If you tested positive for COVID-19 or are waiting for test results (regardless of vaccination status, whether symptomatic or asymptomatic): ISOLATE AT HOME: Stay away from people and pets for at ...
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  • Can I apply for unemployment benefits?

    Last Updated: 02/17/2023
    If you've lost your job and are seeking help, refer to this guide that will help you connect to benefits and resources you may need while trying to safely get back to work as well as tips for copin...
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  • Can I use sick leave or family leave if I get COVID-19 or need to take care of someone?

    Last Updated: 02/15/2023
    New Jersey has among the most comprehensive Earned Sick Leave, Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance laws in the country, which cover all employees -- full-time, part-time, temporary and ...
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