Legislation requiring the creation of a maternity policy within the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) cleared the General Assembly last week. Bill A5076, sponsored by Assemblymen Joe Danielsen and Kevin Egan, and Assemblywoman Rosaura “Rosy” Bagolie, would require the NJSP to develop a leave policy that would establish a minimum of eight weeks of continuous recovery leave after giving birth. Additionally, a trooper would not be subject to residency restrictions or integrity checks while on maternity leave.
“Every day, state troopers put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe, often making immense personal sacrifices,” said Assemblyman Danielsen (D-Middlesex, Somerset). “By ensuring maternity leave is clearly defined and fairly administered, we are standing by those who stand up for us. This legislation is about respect and ensuring that no trooper struggles to balance duty and motherhood.”
This bill would implement several recommendations from a report commissioned by the State, that reviewed recruitment, hiring, promotional practices, and the workplace environment at the NJSP. The report identified barriers for female troopers, including unclear sick leave policies and physical fitness test requirements that could disproportionately affect pregnant and postpartum individuals. The report also indicated that female troopers on maternity leave were subject to integrity checks to ensure they were complying with an AG directive to be home between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
“Our troopers should never have to choose between their careers and wanting to start a family,” said Assemblyman Egan (D-Middlesex, Somerset). “This bill would ensure they receive the support they need during such an important time in their lives. Clear, fair maternity leave policies show that we value the people who serve and protect us every day.”
Under A5076, the Superintendent of NJSP would be tasked with establishing a maternity leave policy that includes a minimum of eight weeks of continuous recovery leave following childbirth, during which the trooper would receive full pay and benefits. This recovery leave would not be categorized as sick leave or deducted from the trooper’s sick leave balance. Additionally, troopers on maternity recovery leave would not be subject to residency restrictions or integrity checks, which may otherwise apply to medical leave.
“A strong maternity leave policy isn’t just good for troopers—it’s good for public safety, morale, and retention,” said Assemblywoman Bagolie (D-Essex, Passaic). “When we support our troopers during one of the most significant moments in their lives, we are sending a message that we not only value their service in the field, but in their personal lives as well.”
