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In a significant move to support grieving families, New Jersey is advancing legislation to expand bereavement leave under the Family Leave Act. This initiative, championed by Assemblywoman Shanique Speight and inspired by advocates like Jackie Mancinelli, aims to provide employees with the necessary time to mourn the loss of a child, including circumstances such as miscarriage, stillbirth, or termination of pregnancy for medical reasons. The proposed bill also extends to cover unsuccessful adoption plans and fertility treatments.

Currently, New Jersey’s Family Leave Act allows employees to take time off to care for family members but does not extend to personal bereavement. This gap in the law has left many grieving parents without adequate support during some of the most challenging times of their lives. Mancinelli’s personal experiences with pregnancy loss and the subsequent lack of workplace support are factors in her leading this legislative change. 

After enduring a miscarriage and later the loss of her newborn, while teaching high school English, she had to use sick time and unpaid leave. She even took on additional custodial work to make ends meet during this time. Her struggles led her to establish Start Healing Together, a nonprofit organization advocating for workplace rights for grieving families dealing with pregnancy loss, infertility, and adoption loss.

The proposed legislation seeks to amend the existing Family Leave Act to include bereavement leave for:

• The loss of a child due to death, miscarriage, stillbirth, or termination of pregnancy for medical reasons.
• Unsuccessful adoption plans.
• Unsuccessful fertility treatments.

Assemblywoman Speight emphasizes that allowing employees time to grieve properly is not only compassionate but also beneficial for workplace productivity. “If you want that employee to come back strong, you definitely want to give them time to properly grieve,” she stated.

The importance of this legislation is backed by experts like Rutgers University psychology professor Maurice Elias, who notes that expecting individuals to return to work immediately after such profound losses is unreasonable. Proper grieving time is essential for healing, and providing this support reflects a humane approach to employee well-being.

Organizations such as the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) have expressed support for the bill, creating platforms for state residents to urge lawmakers to pass the measure. The NJEA’s involvement indicates a broader recognition of the need for systemic support for grieving families within the workplace.

As this bill progresses through the legislative process, it represents a compassionate step toward acknowledging and supporting the diverse experiences of loss that families may encounter. By providing structured bereavement leave, New Jersey is setting a precedent that prioritizes the emotional well-being of its workforce, creating a more empathetic and supportive work environment for all.

At The Surrogacy Law Center, we deeply understand the emotional complexities families face during their fertility journeys, including the grief that can come with unexpected losses. As legal and societal landscapes evolve, our team is here to provide clarity, support, and compassionate guidance. Whether you’re navigating surrogacy, adoption, or other assisted reproductive technologies, we’re committed to ensuring your family-building process is protected. Contact us today to learn how we can help you safeguard your rights and provide peace of mind for the future!