Bill > LB189

This bill adopts the Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Act, which establishes a comprehensive paid leave program for workers in Nebraska beginning January 1, 2028. The bill creates a state-managed insurance fund that will provide eligible employees with up to ten weeks of paid leave for various reasons, including caring for a new child, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, addressing personal medical needs, supporting military family members, and handling military-related exigencies. Covered individuals will receive partial wage replacement based on a sliding scale, with lower-wage workers receiving a higher percentage of their average weekly wage (up to 90% for wages at or below 50% of the state average) and a maximum benefit of 66% of the state average weekly wage. Participation is optional for both employers and individuals, with contributions from covered individuals funding the program. The bill includes strong worker protections, such as job restoration rights, prohibition of retaliation, and maintenance of health benefits during leave. The program will be administered by the Commissioner of Labor, who will collect contributions, process claims, and provide annual reports to the Legislature. The bill also establishes detailed definitions, eligibility criteria, and administrative procedures to implement the paid leave program.

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https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59182