(TRENTON) – In defense of workers’ rights, Assembly Members Annette Quijano, Pamela Lampitt and Wayne DeAngelo sponsored legislation strengthening enforcement procedures and criminal sanctions against employers who fail to pay wages, compensation or benefits required by law or retaliate against employees. The bill (A-2903) cleared the Assembly Labor Committee Thursday and now heads to the full Assembly. The sponsors issued the following statements Friday:
Assemblywoman Annette Quijano (D-Union): “This bill protects every working individual in the state of New Jersey against wage theft. Wage theft includes failing to pay the minimum wage, misapplying overtime rates or withholding payment for work performed. This bill will protect workers so they don’t have to choose between rent, food, or taking care of their children.”
Assemblywoman Pamela Lampitt (D-Camden/Burlington): “Every individual employed in New Jersey is entitled to the legal wages their employer has agreed to pay them, including overtime. It is critical that New Jersey take additional steps to protect our working men and women from unscrupulous business practices. We must put New Jersey workers first, and I am honored to sponsor this important piece of legislation which shows we have the backs of our workforce.”
Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex): “Above all else, this bill is about workers’ rights. Employers in New Jersey should be held to a high standard to treat their employees with the decency and legality they deserve. No one should be withheld one penny of the wages they are legally entitled to.”