Primary sponsors of S2304 include Senate President Stephen Sweeney, and Senator Nicholas Scutari and Assemblymembers Shavonda Sumter, Annette Chaparro, and Annette Quijano.

“The coronavirus pandemic is creating health care challenges with economic consequences for workers and their families, that are likely to become worse,” said Senate President Stephen Sweeney, who authored the original Paid Family Leave Law. “We must work together to be resourceful, responsive and proactive at a time when so many people are experiencing hardship due to the pandemic.”

“The health and wellness of our citizens continues to be our top priority as we navigate through this challenging moment in time,” said Senator Nicholas Scutari. “Those who have been forced to take an extended leave of absence from their jobs due to self-quarantining or are home taking care of a loved one are more than deserving to see these benefits afforded to them.”

Joint Statement from Assemblywomen Sumter, Chaparro and Quijano released the following statement: 

“We are proud that New Jersey has one of the most expansive paid family leave and disability benefit programs in the nation. These vital resources ensure workers are able to take the time off they need to care for themselves and their families, while still receiving a wage. The more COVID-19 spreads, the more people will need to self-quarantine and take time away from work. By extending family leave and disability benefits to people impacted by COVID-19, we will lessen the financial burden on workers who do not have access to unemployment benefits but still must stay home from work.”