Department of Labor New Jersey: 5 Facts to Know in 2023

The New Jersey Department of Labor (NJDOL) is a state agency responsible for enforcing labor laws, promoting employment, and providing unemployment benefits. Here are five key facts about the NJDOL in 2023:

1. $1.2 Billion in Unemployment Benefits Paid: In 2022, the NJDOL paid out approximately $1.2 billion in unemployment benefits to eligible workers. This substantial sum demonstrates the department's commitment to assisting New Jersey residents who have lost their jobs.

2. 500,000+ Registered Employers: There are over 500,000 registered employers in New Jersey, each of whom is subject to state labor laws. The NJDOL works closely with employers to ensure compliance with these laws, protecting the rights of employees and fostering a fair workplace environment.

   

3. $16.4 Billion in Wages Recovered: Since 2018, the NJDOL has recovered more than $16.4 billion in unpaid wages for New Jersey workers through its Wage and Hour Division. This significant recovery amount highlights the department's dedication to ensuring that employees are paid fairly for their work.

4. 1,200+ Labor Standards Inspections: In 2022, the NJDOL conducted over 1,200 labor standards inspections, covering a wide range of workplaces, including retail, construction, and healthcare. These inspections are crucial in enforcing labor laws and ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of workers.

5. 60+ Apprenticeship Programs: The NJDOL supports workforce development through its apprenticeship system. Currently, there are over 60 registered apprenticeship programs in the state, providing individuals with on-the-job training and valuable skills required for various industries.

Key Initiatives of the NJDOL

The NJDOL has several key initiatives aimed at improving the lives of New Jersey workers:

• Minimum Wage Increase: In 2023, the minimum wage in New Jersey increased to $14.13 per hour, benefiting over 1 million low-wage workers.

• Paid Family and Medical Leave: The New Jersey Family Leave Insurance Program provides up to 12 weeks of paid leave for eligible workers who need to care for a newborn, an adopted child, a seriously ill family member, or their own medical condition.

  

• Worker Misclassification Prevention: The NJDOL is actively combating worker misclassification, where employers misclassify employees as independent contractors to avoid paying appropriate wages and benefits.

• Unemployment Insurance Modernization: The department is modernizing its unemployment insurance system to enhance efficiency, combat fraud, and improve the experience for claimants.

How to Contact the NJDOL

For more information or assistance, you can contact the NJDOL through the following channels:

• Website: https://www.nj.gov/labor
• Phone: 1-888-234-5300
• Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources

• NJDOL Annual Report
• NJDOL Wage and Hour Division
• NJDOL Apprenticeship Program
• NJDOL Paid Family and Medical Leave Program

By staying informed about the NJDOL and its initiatives, New Jersey workers can ensure their rights are protected, access essential benefits, and navigate the labor market with confidence.