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New Jersey Expands Family Leave, Cuts Eligibility Requirements

1/15/2026

Center

Senate Expands Benefits

The New Jersey Senate approved legislation expanding family leave and temporary disability benefits for workers at companies with as few as 15 employees.
The bill passed 24-12, lowering eligibility from 12 months to six and from 1,000 hours to 500 hours.
Benefits rise to 85% of weekly pay, capped at $1,119 in 2026.
Business groups oppose the expansion.
Lawmakers approved phasing out intoxicating hemp products to align with federal regulations.

Left

Legislature Approves Subsidies

The New Jersey Legislature approved a $3 billion expansion of corporate tax breaks, including $300 million for Newark’s Prudential Center.
The New Jersey Assembly Republicans condemned the subsidies as corporate giveaways and urged support for small businesses.
Lawmakers passed legislation to legalize therapeutic access to psilocybin for adults over 21.
They also increased penalties for cyberharassment of public officials and mandated educational initiatives.
These measures await the governor's signature.

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Senate Expands Benefits

The New Jersey Senate approved legislation expanding family leave and temporary disability benefits for workers at companies with as few as 15 employees.
The bill passed 24-12, lowering eligibility from 12 months to six and from 1,000 hours to 500 hours.
Benefits rise to 85% of weekly pay, capped at $1,119 in 2026.
Business groups oppose the expansion.
Lawmakers approved phasing out intoxicating hemp products to align with federal regulations.

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