MATERNITY LEAVE Maternity leaves encompass two parts: (1) birth and recovery (care for employee) and (2) bonding period (care for child). An employee going on maternity leave must submit medical documentation in the same manner as employees on other types of medical leave. An employee, under normal circumstances, is considered disabled 4 weeks prior to and 6 weeks after the birth of the baby (8 weeks for cesarean section). Sick leave can only be used during the time the employee is actually considered disabled. New Jersey Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and Family Leave Insurance (FLI)When an employee is temporarily disabled due to pregnancy and has exhausted all earned sick leave, she may apply for temporary disability insurance (TDI). Eligibility and amount of paid benefit are determined by the New Jersey Department of Labor. Click here for more information. Health Benefits Employees on medical leave as a result of pregnancy disability maintain full health benefits and pension coverage while in pay status. At the point the employee moves to leave without pay status during a normal pregnancy disability, she will continue her health benefits for a period of 3 months and may be eligible for Family Leave. If a benefit (Dental and/or Health Plan) requires a payroll deduction, this premium contribution must be paid during this period to continue coverage. PensionMembers of the Public Employees Retirement System, Teachers Pension Annuity Fund and Police and Firemen's Retirement System are eligible to purchase credit for up to a maximum of two years for authorized medical leaves. There is no such provision in the Alternate Benefit Program. Life InsuranceGroup life insurance coverage will continue during your pregnancy disability. No contributions will be required from members covered by contributory life insurance to continue their insurance. In the event your pregnancy does not fall within the normal disability guidelines and you are required by your physician to begin your disability leave earlier than the 4 weeks before or extend beyond the 6 to 8 weeks after the birth, refer to the section on Medical Leaves for procedures. PATERNITY LEAVE Please click here to learn more about benefits to bond with your new addition. Additional Resources: FMLA and NJ FLA Specific Notice, covering eligibility requirements and job protection Fact Sheet #20 - Leaves of Absence and your benefits
