The New Jersey Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights was just signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy. Take two seconds today to send a letter thanking Governor Murphy and the bill’s sponsors, Assemblymember Britnee Timberlake and Senator Richard Codey, for their support of domestic workers.
Thanks to your support and countless emails and calls to legislators, we just achieved a significant victory for domestic workers in New Jersey.
For years, domestic worker leaders in New Jersey, mostly women of color and immigrants, have pushed for this legislation to grant domestic workers the same basic labor protections as other workers in the state.
The bill will extend vital protections to over 50,000 domestic workers who have long been excluded from specific labor laws. This group includes nannies, housecleaners, homecare workers, and other domestic workers.
The New Jersey Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights will provide paid breaks and meal times, establish written contracts between domestic workers and employers, and protect domestic workers against discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. The bill includes provisions to facilitate enforcement of domestic worker rights and educate workers and employers about the new law. Additionally, the bill ensures advance notice of termination and other protections for live-in workers, such as privacy and anti-trafficking safeguards.
Getting to this point is a testament to the power of grassroots advocacy and the belief that change IS possible. Now, New Jersey joins 10 other states, including California, Connecticut, New York, and Massachusetts, in extending protections to domestic workers.
Thanks for all that you do,
New Jersey Advocacy Team
National Domestic Workers Alliance