Cherry Hill Employment Lawyers: NJ Town Passes Mandatory Paid Sick Days

With the passing of a much-debated ordinance, Morristown became one of several New Jersey towns to mandate paid sick days for private employees. The non-profit organization New Jersey Working Families First proposed the ordinance which they feel gives workers the peace of mind to take time off when sick. As per the new mandate, all private business in town are required to provide between three to five paid sick days for every employee. Cherry Hill employment lawyers report that 12 other New Jersey towns currently have similar legislation.

Advocates for the mandate include several area non-profit organizations including the American Associate of Retired Persons (AARP) and the United Way of Northern New Jersey. Proponents of mandatory paid sick days feel that sick days are a fundamental right for every employee. Many feel that working parents should be able to take off to care for sick children.

Mandatory Sick Days: Improving Health or Intruding on Businesses?

Others consider the matter to be a public health issue. Sick workers that interact with the public, care for small children, or handle food and beverages risk spreading illness. One Morristown small business owner spoke in favor of the ordinance, saying it fosters a positive relationship between employers and employees.

However, other local employers disagree with the mandate, calling it one more government intrusion into small business. One business owner in particular feels that he should reserve the right to offer paid sick days as an incentive to good employees. The only Councilwoman who voted against mandatory paid sick days questioned how the law would be enforced – and just how much that would cost the town.

Time will tell if mandatory paid sick days lead to employee satisfaction, increased productivity, and worker retention. If this employer concession offers good results, the mandate might just graduate to New Jersey state law.

Cherry Hill Employment Lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. Advocate for Workers’ Rights

All employees experience minor illnesses that prevent them from working for a day or two. But what about the worker facing a serious health crisis or a personal issue that requires more time off? Cherry Hill employment lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates P.C. help clients navigate New Jersey Family and Medical Leave policies so they have peace of mind to care for themselves and their loved ones. Call our offices today at 215-569-1999 or contact us online to discuss your case. We serve clients throughout Philadelphia and New Jersey including Camden County, Gloucester County, Burlington County, Cumberland County, and Atlantic County.