Bill > SB144

This bill modifies Colorado's Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program by making several key changes. First, it expands the maximum number of weeks of paid leave from 12 to 12 weeks, with an additional four weeks for pregnancy or childbirth complications, and starting in 2026, an additional twelve weeks for parents whose newborns are in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The bill also adjusts the premium rates for the program, maintaining a 0.9% rate through 2025, then reducing it to 0.88% in 2026. For 2027 and beyond, the director of the program will set annual premium rates, with guidelines to ensure the fund maintains a balance sufficient to cover at least six months of projected expenses, minimize rate volatility, and not exceed 1.2% of employee wages. The legislation aims to provide more comprehensive and flexible family and medical leave support while ensuring the program's financial sustainability. The bill will take effect after the standard legislative review period, with a potential referendum in November 2026 if challenged.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb25-144