Bill > SB10

This bill establishes a comprehensive paid family leave insurance program for Alaska that will provide wage replacement for employees taking family leave. The program requires the state to procure a family leave insurance plan that covers state employees at no cost and allows political subdivisions and private employers to opt into the plan. Employees will be eligible for up to 100% of their average weekly wage (up to $3,000 per week) for at least six weeks of family leave, with coverage available for reasons including childbirth, adoption, foster care placement, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or the employee's own serious health condition. Employers with 50 or more employees must maintain health insurance coverage during leave and restore employees to their previous or similar positions. The bill creates a purchasing pool for employees of smaller employers or those not offering equivalent leave coverage, with premiums capped at $5 per employee per week. A seven-member advisory board will support implementation, and the state will develop an outreach program to educate employers and employees about the plan. Additionally, the bill provides a 50% tax credit for employers who pay family leave insurance premiums and sets a timeline for implementation, with the procurement process to begin by March 31, 2026, and the program to be fully operational by January 1, 2027.