WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

A 5499

Requires employer to provide one additional paid sick day per benefit year to paid first responders for healthcare diagnostic testing.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rob Clifton and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey requires employers to grant paid first responders one extra sick day annually specifically for healthcare diagnostic testing related to occupational health risks.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
#emersvcs #health
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5499

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 5499 mandates that employers provide one additional paid sick day per benefit year exclusively to paid first responders (firefighters, police, emergency medical personnel) for healthcare diagnostic testing purposes. The bill applies to all employers in New Jersey who employ such first responders and does not specify exemptions based on employer size.

Why is this important

First responders face occupational health risks that may require frequent diagnostic testing (cancer screenings, cardiac evaluations, exposure assessments), and this bill acknowledges those risks by ensuring paid time off for medical evaluation. The provision directly impacts healthcare access and workforce retention in critical public safety roles while establishing a precedent for occupation-specific paid leave policies.

Potential points of contention

  • Employer cost impact: Businesses, particularly smaller departments or private ambulance services, may face increased payroll expenses without clarity on whether municipalities receive state reimbursement
  • Definition scope: The bill doesn't clearly define which "paid first responders" qualify (volunteers excluded? private security? 911 dispatchers?) or what constitutes qualifying "diagnostic testing"
  • Equity concerns: Singling out one occupation for additional benefits may create workplace tensions and raise questions about why other high-risk workers (nurses, hazmat workers) are excluded

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.