NJ A4194

Prohibits employers from requiring parents or legal guardians of K-12 children to work on-site when their job can be performed remotely during a state of emergency or public health emergency that closes schools and requires virtual instruction, unless the employer demonstrates undue hardship.

Creates a rebuttable presumption that an employee can work remotely if they have already done so for two consecutive pay periods or two weeks, whichever is shorter.

Establishes civil penalties of up to $1,000 for a first violation, $5,000 for a second violation, and $10,000 for each subsequent violation, enforced by the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development.

Makes it a violation of New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination if an employer requires in-person work based on protected characteristics such as race, sex, national origin, pregnancy, disability, or gender identity.

Prohibits employers from penalizing employees in any terms, conditions, or privileges of employment for requesting or utilizing remote work under this act.