Trenton, New Jersey. A new measure in New Jersey aims to grant workers the legal right to turn off business communications during off-peak hours, as the distinction between work and personal life becomes increasingly blurred due to technological advancements.
Bill A4852, filed by Assemblywoman Heather Simmons (Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland), would mandate that all employers in the state create written policies permitting workers to disregard emails, messages, and other work-related contacts when they are not in their assigned work hours. A signed contract between employers and employees would specify those hours.
“As we move back to in-person settings, we’re seeing a high value being placed on after-hours personal time, even though remote work has created many opportunities,” Simmons said. The purpose of this measure is to give employers and workers a framework that will not only strengthen their connection but also enable companies to hire and maintain a contemporary workforce that is placing a greater emphasis on their personal life.
According to a joint World Health Organization and International Labour Organization report, the COVID-19 pandemic was a game-changer that compelled many companies to implement telework in order to safeguard employee health and safety. But because of this change, many employees now feel pressured to be on the clock, which has resulted in longer workdays and less time for personal activities.
The proposed law contains provisions that let businesses get in touch with employees in case of emergencies or scheduling issues. The Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development would impose fines of at least $100 on employers who were found to have violated the legislation on a regular basis.
Examining work-life balance
Similar laws have been implemented in nations including France, Italy, and Spain, demonstrating the global momentum behind the freedom to disconnect campaign. By passing Simmons’ measure, New Jersey would become one of the first states in the US to do so.
The bill’s proponents contend that it might lessen employee stress, exhaustion, and mental health problems. However, some have expressed worries about the law’s potential enforcement and if it will limit corporate flexibility, especially for sectors that operate across time zones.
The Labor Committee of the state assembly is presently reviewing the bill. It would be sent to the Senate and the entire Assembly for review if it were advanced.
