New Jersey Administrative Code Title 12 - LABOR AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
New Jersey Administrative Code – Title 12: Labor and Workforce Development
1. Purpose
Title 12 of the N.J.A.C. governs rules and regulations related to:
Employment standards
Worker rights and protections
Workforce development programs
Wage and hour requirements
Employment services and benefits
It provides a regulatory framework to implement New Jersey laws on labor, employment, unemployment, workforce training, and workplace safety.
2. Scope
Title 12 applies to:
Employers and Employees in New Jersey.
State-funded workforce programs and services.
Labor-related agencies, including:
Division of Wage and Hour Compliance
Division of Unemployment Insurance
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services
It covers private, public, and nonprofit sectors wherever state labor laws apply.
3. Structure of Title 12
Title 12 is divided into multiple chapters, each addressing a specific area of labor and workforce development. Key chapters include:
| Chapter | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| N.J.A.C. 12:56 | Wage and Hour rules, including minimum wage, overtime, and recordkeeping. |
| N.J.A.C. 12:57 | Child labor regulations and protections for minor workers. |
| N.J.A.C. 12:58 | Workplace safety and health compliance in accordance with state OSHA standards. |
| N.J.A.C. 12:60 | Workforce development programs, including training grants and employment services. |
| N.J.A.C. 12:62 | Vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities. |
| N.J.A.C. 12:63 | Unemployment insurance administration, eligibility, and benefit rules. |
4. Key Provisions
A. Wage and Hour Rules
Employers must pay minimum wage set by the state.
Overtime (over 40 hours per week) must be 1.5 times regular pay.
Employers must maintain accurate records of hours worked and wages paid.
B. Child Labor
Limits on working hours and types of work for minors.
Minors under 18 need work permits for employment.
Restrictions exist for hazardous occupations.
C. Workforce Development Programs
The state runs programs to train and upskill workers.
Funding is available for vocational training, apprenticeships, and reemployment services.
Employers can participate in on-the-job training programs for workforce development.
D. Vocational Rehabilitation
Services to help individuals with disabilities enter or re-enter the workforce.
Includes career counseling, job placement, and skill development.
E. Unemployment Insurance
Administered under state law to provide temporary financial support to eligible unemployed workers.
Rules define eligibility, benefit amounts, and appeals procedures.
F. Workplace Safety
Compliance with health and safety standards is mandatory.
Employers must report workplace injuries and maintain a safe working environment.
5. Enforcement
Division of Wage and Hour Compliance: Investigates wage violations, enforces minimum wage laws, and ensures overtime compliance.
Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DLWD): Monitors program compliance, safety inspections, and workforce initiatives.
Penalties: Employers violating Title 12 regulations can face:
Fines or restitution to employees
License suspension (for certain business activities)
Legal action for non-compliance
6. Examples / Applications
Example 1: Wage Violation
An employer fails to pay overtime for hours worked over 40 in a week.
Under N.J.A.C. 12:56, the Division can require payment plus penalties.
Example 2: Child Labor
A minor is employed in hazardous work without a permit.
N.J.A.C. 12:57 allows fines and work stoppage until compliance is met.
Example 3: Workforce Development
An adult worker enrolls in a state-sponsored training program for advanced IT skills.
N.J.A.C. 12:60 ensures eligibility, program standards, and financial support.
Example 4: Unemployment Insurance
An employee loses their job due to company downsizing.
N.J.A.C. 12:63 defines how they apply for benefits, determine eligibility, and handle disputes.
7. Key Takeaways
Title 12 regulates labor comprehensively — covering wages, child labor, safety, and workforce development.
Agencies enforce compliance through inspections, audits, and penalties.
Workers are protected through wage laws, safety standards, unemployment benefits, and vocational rehabilitation.
Employers have obligations to maintain records, report compliance, and provide safe workplaces.
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