Garden State Times

Eileen Kean, the State Director of the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), testified before the Assembly Labor Committee on September 19, 2024. In her testimony, she expressed opposition to bill A-4621, which would require employers to disclose information about leave eligibility in hiring packages.

Kean argued that this requirement places an unnecessary burden on small businesses in New Jersey. "Main Street businesses are the foundation of New Jersey’s economic engine," she stated, highlighting the ongoing struggles these businesses face due to post-COVID challenges and inflation.

She questioned the necessity of providing such documentation at the time of hiring, asking, "Why should a small businessperson be required to document options available for time off?" Kean also raised concerns about whether this requirement would apply only to full-time employees or include part-time workers as well.

Kean emphasized that it should be the responsibility of employees with personal issues requiring leave to determine their qualifications under various acts such as the “Family Leave Act,” P.L.1989, c.261, and other related federal and state laws.

Additionally, Kean criticized potential monetary penalties that could be imposed on small businesses by the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development if they fail to comply with this requirement. She urged committee members to vote against A-4621.