Labor & Employment (Gig Economy)

This bill amends New Jersey's unemployment insurance law (R.S.43:21-19) by revising definitions related to benefit calculations, not employment classification. It updates how "base years" are determined for unemployment claims, including rules for alternative base years when standard criteria aren't met (e.g., due to disability or military service), and clarifies payroll calculations for determining benefit eligibility. The changes directly affect individuals filing for unemployment benefits and the Division of Unemployment and Temporary Disability Insurance in processing claims. The bill focuses on procedural adjustments to benefit eligibility rules, not worker classification as suggested by its title.

This bill requires construction industry employers in New Jersey to visibly post and provide written notices to all employees about key workplace rights, including unemployment benefits, minimum wage, overtime, and protections against retaliation. The notices must cover rights under the existing Construction Industry Independent Contractor Act (P.L.2007, c.114) and include contact information for filing complaints with the Labor Department. Employers must provide the notices in English, Spanish, and other languages determined by the commissioner based on workforce demographics. Failure to comply results in civil penalties of up to $1,500 for first violations and $5,000 for repeat violations within five years.