COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements and Your Workplace Rights in New Jersey
Since the introduction of COVID-19 vaccines, many employers have implemented vaccine mandates to promote workplace safety. But can your employer legally require you to get vaccinated? And what happens if you object? At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we help New Jersey employees understand their rights when it comes to vaccine policies and medical or religious accommodations.
Can Employers Require COVID-19 Vaccination?
In New Jersey, private employers are generally allowed to require COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of employment, especially in settings where employees interact with the public or work in healthcare. However, these mandates are subject to legal limits that protect employee rights under both federal and state law.
Accommodations for Medical and Religious Reasons
Under the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) and federal laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, employees may request exemptions based on:
- Medical conditions that make vaccination unsafe
- Sincerely held religious beliefs that prohibit vaccination
Employers must engage in an “interactive process” to determine whether a reasonable accommodation is possible, such as remote work, regular testing, or masking. If no such accommodation can be made without creating an undue hardship, the employer may lawfully enforce the vaccine policy.
Protection from Retaliation
It is illegal for an employer to retaliate against you for requesting a medical or religious accommodation. If you’re demoted, fired, harassed, or otherwise punished for exercising your rights, you may be entitled to file a legal claim under NJLAD.
What You Should Do
If your employer requires COVID-19 vaccination and you believe you have a valid exemption, take these steps:
- Submit a written request for accommodation: Be clear and include supporting documentation if applicable.
- Document all interactions: Keep copies of correspondence and notes from meetings.
- Seek legal counsel: An employment attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of asserting them.
At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we represent employees who face discrimination or retaliation due to vaccine policies. We are here to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment in the workplace, no matter your vaccination status or beliefs.
To learn more about your legal options, visit our article on New Jersey COVID-19 vaccine employment rights.
Contact NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC
Address: 101 Eisenhower Pkwy #300, Roseland, NJ 07068
Phone: (973) 358-7027
Whether you’re seeking a vaccine exemption or facing retaliation for asserting your rights, NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC is ready to advocate for you with clarity, compassion, and strength.
