New Jersey Bill Expands Family Leave for Pregnancy Loss and Child Death

Legislation would provide up to 21 days of protected leave for workers grieving miscarriage, stillbirth, or loss of a child.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 12:50am

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New Jersey lawmakers have advanced a bill that would expand the state's Family Leave Act to allow employees to take protected time off following the death of a child, miscarriage, stillbirth, or termination of a pregnancy for medical reasons. The legislation, sponsored by Assemblyman William Sampson and Assemblywoman Shanique Speight, would also cover leave after an unsuccessful adoption or fertility treatment.

Why it matters

This bill aims to provide compassion and support for workers experiencing the deeply personal tragedy of pregnancy loss or the death of a child. Current policies often leave these employees without sufficient time to grieve, putting their jobs at risk during an incredibly difficult time.

The details

Under the proposed legislation, employees could take up to 21 days of leave immediately following a qualifying loss, or up to seven days if they are otherwise eligible for disability or family leave benefits. The bill would also allow workers to access family temporary disability leave benefits to cover bereavement. Employers could request reasonable documentation, though documentation would not be required for employees seeking bereavement leave.

  • The bill, A2198, advanced through the Assembly Labor Committee on Monday, March 17, 2026.

The players

Assemblyman William Sampson

The Democratic representative from Hudson County who sponsored the bill.

Assemblywoman Shanique Speight

The Democratic representative from Essex and Union counties who co-sponsored the bill.

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What they’re saying

“'Pregnancy loss and the loss of a child are deeply personal tragedies that deserve compassion and understanding in the workplace. No one should have to worry about their job or their paycheck while grieving such a profound loss. This bill would ensure that families have the time and dignity they need to heal.'”

— Assemblyman William Sampson

“'Many families experience heartbreaking setbacks on the path to parenthood, whether through miscarriage, unsuccessful fertility treatments, or a planned adoption that does not come to fruition. By recognizing these experiences in our leave policies, we acknowledge the emotional toll they take and ensure workers have the support they need during incredibly difficult moments.'”

— Assemblywoman Shanique Speight

What’s next

The bill will now move to the full Assembly for consideration.

The takeaway

This legislation represents an important step in providing compassionate support for New Jersey workers facing the profound grief of pregnancy loss or the death of a child. By expanding family leave policies, the state aims to ensure these employees have the time and resources they need to heal during an incredibly difficult time.