Bill Aims To Expand California’s Paid Family Leave Program
California lawmakers are considering a bill (AB 908) that would increase the amount of paid time off Californians can take to care for a sick family member or bond with a new child, the Sacramento Business Journal reports.
Background
California enacted its paid family leave program in 2002, making it the first state to adopt such a program.
Currently, the program guarantees a maximum of six weeks of maternity and paternity leave or leave to care for a sick family member. It ensures that such workers will be eligible to receive at least 55% of their normal wages during such leave.
Details of Bill
Under AB 908, by Assembly member Jimmy Gomez (D-Los Angeles), maximum leave under the paid family leave program would increase to 10 weeks.
In addition, workers' wages during such leave also would increase to a minimum of:
- 80% for those with incomes of $20,000 or less;
- 75% for those with incomes of $20,000 to $60,000; and
- 65% for those with incomes greater than $60,000.
The bill is scheduled for a hearing in the Assembly Committee on Insurance next month.
Support for the Measure
The bill is sponsored by the California Labor Federation (Young, Sacramento Business Journal, 3/24).
Meanwhile, Sharon Terman, director of the Legal Aid Society-Employment Law Center's Work & Family Program, said the bill "will strengthen this landmark program and ensure that all Californians can be there for their families when they need them" (Gomez release, 3/23).
This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.