New Jersey workers are facing continued uncertainty as new layoffs are announced across the state. Recent filings under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act show that two additional companies plan to eliminate more than 250 jobs in the coming months, adding to a growing trend of workforce reductions in 2026.
According to filings with the New Jersey Department of Labor, **263 employees are at risk of losing their jobs** due to layoffs at major employers. These developments underscore the importance of understanding your legal rights—particularly when it comes to **severance agreements, severance reviews, and potential wrongful termination claims**.
Telecommunications giant AT&T has announced it will lay off 87 employees at its Bedminster location effective May 4. The layoffs coincide with the company’s relocation to a nearby facility, suggesting a restructuring rather than a full closure.
Meanwhile, Alan Ritchey, Inc. will terminate 176 employees at its Phillipsburg-area logistics hub in Lopatcong Township. The layoffs—impacting forklift operators, shippers, and packers—are scheduled for July 17 and stem from the loss of a key contract with the United States Postal Service.
These layoffs are part of a broader trend. In just the first two months of 2026, nearly 4,000 jobs were projected to be lost in New Jersey—a sharp increase compared to the previous year.
The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN Act) requires employers to provide at least 60 days’ notice before mass layoffs or plant closures affecting 50 or more employees at a single site.
While the WARN Act is intended to give workers time to prepare, it does not always guarantee full protection. Employers sometimes fail to comply with notice requirements or structure layoffs in ways that attempt to avoid triggering WARN obligations. If that happens, affected employees may have legal claims
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If you are impacted by a layoff, you may be offered a severance package. Before signing anything, it is critical to have an experienced employment attorney conduct a **severance review**.
A severance agreement is a legally binding contract. In exchange for compensation, you are often asked to waive important rights—including the ability to bring claims for **wrongful termination**, discrimination, or retaliation.
* You are receiving fair compensation
* You are not giving up valuable legal claims unknowingly
* Restrictive clauses (such as non-competes or confidentiality provisions) are reasonable
* The agreement complies with New Jersey and federal law
In many cases, severance terms are negotiable—especially when potential legal claims exist.
Not all layoffs are purely economic. Even during a reduction in force, employers must follow the law. A termination may still be considered **wrongful termination** if it involves:
* Discrimination based on age, race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics
* Retaliation for whistleblowing or reporting workplace violations
* Violations of employment contracts or company policies
* Failure to comply with WARN Act notice requirements
For example, if older workers or employees who recently filed complaints are disproportionately selected for layoffs, that could raise legal concerns.
If you are facing a layoff in New Jersey, taking the right steps early can make a significant difference:
* Do not sign a severance agreement without a legal review
* Request all documentation related to your termination
* Keep records of communications with your employer
* Consult with an employment attorney to evaluate potential claims
As layoffs continue across industries, employees need to be proactive about protecting their rights. Whether you need a **severance review** or believe you may have a **wrongful termination** claim, experienced legal guidance can help you make informed decisions during a difficult time.
If you or someone you know has been affected by recent layoffs in New Jersey, our firm is available to review severance agreements and assess potential claims to ensure you receive the compensation and protection you deserve.