Working Families United for New Jersey, Inc. (WFUNJ) continues to spearhead efforts across New Jersey for a statewide earned sick days law. Today, those efforts have brought us one step closer to our goal. Following a second round of testimony, the Assembly Labor Committee voted 6 to 3 to release statewide earned sick days legislation (A-2354). A full vote breakdown is as follows:

Vote on Earned Sick Days Bill
YES - Joseph V. Egan, Chair (D-17)
YES - Shavonda E. Sumter, Vice-Chair (D-35)
YES - Craig J. Coughlin (D-19)
NO  - Ronald S. Dancer (R-12)
YES - Raj Mukherji (D-33)
YES - Jason O’Donnell (D-31)
YES - Annette Quijano (D-20)
NO  - Parker Space (R-24)
NO  - Jay Webber (R-26)

Over the past several months, WFUNJ has been instrumental to illustrating the benefits earned sick days would provide to workers, businesses, and the community. It is clear that our message is being heard, and that speaks to the incredible efforts of our progressive grassroots partners. Furthermore, we applaud the sponsors of A-2354 – Assemblywoman Pamela Lampitt and Assemblyman Raj Mukherji, along with the legislators who voted in favor of releasing the bill from committee.

By allowing all workers to earn a modest amount of paid sick time, we are doing right by 1.2 million New Jerseyans who currently lack this basic benefit; we are helping to foster healthier and more productive workplaces; and we are making the responsible choice for public health.

Once again, we thank all of our progressive grassroots partners from across the state, which joined with us today in support of the earned sick days bill. Your efforts will make the difference in ensuring enactment of this necessary policy.