COVID-19 Vaccination and Employment Rights in New Jersey

As workplaces continue to adapt in the post-pandemic era, questions about employer-mandated COVID-19 vaccinations remain at the forefront of employment law. Can your employer require you to get vaccinated? What are your rights if you refuse? At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we help New Jersey workers understand how state and federal laws intersect with public health policies—especially when those policies affect your job and personal freedoms.

Can Employers Require the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Generally, yes—New Jersey employers can require employees to get vaccinated against COVID-19, particularly in settings where health and safety are critical, such as healthcare, education, and public-facing industries. However, this right is not unlimited. Employers must comply with anti-discrimination laws and offer accommodations when required by law.

Religious and Medical Exemptions

If you have a sincerely held religious belief or a documented medical condition that prevents you from receiving the vaccine, you may be entitled to a reasonable accommodation. This could include remote work, mask-wearing, or regular COVID testing instead of vaccination.

Both the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, as well as the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD), protect employees from discrimination and retaliation for requesting these accommodations.

Can You Be Fired for Refusing the Vaccine?

If you do not qualify for a legal exemption and still refuse to comply with a mandatory vaccination policy, your employer may have the right to terminate your employment. However, if your refusal is based on a protected ground, and your employer fails to accommodate or retaliates against you, you may have a valid legal claim.

What to Do If You Face Disciplinary Action

If you’ve been disciplined, demoted, or fired because of your vaccination status—or your attempt to seek an exemption—here’s what you can do:

Document all communications related to the vaccine policy and your request for accommodation
Request any denial in writing and ask for clarification on why it was refused
Consult with an experienced employment attorney to determine whether your rights were violated

At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we’ve guided many New Jersey workers through the legal complexities of COVID-era workplace policies. We’re here to ensure you receive fair treatment and that your voice is heard.

Visit our detailed FAQ: Can My Employer Force Me to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine in New Jersey? to explore this issue further.