Bill > SB241

This bill amends the Uniform Attendance and Leave Policy Act to expand catastrophic leave provisions for public employees, specifically adding a new provision for paid leave in the event of an immediate family member's death. The bill defines "immediate family member" broadly to include parents, siblings, spouse, children (including biological, unborn, stepchildren, adoptive, and foster children), grandparents, grandchildren, in-laws, and individuals acting as a parent or guardian. Under the new provisions, employees will be eligible for up to 40 hours of paid catastrophic leave per calendar year for the death of an immediate family member, which must be used within the first four weeks following the death. The leave will run concurrently with the Family and Medical Leave Act if applicable. Importantly, this leave is non-transferable to the next calendar year and is not compensable upon termination or retirement. The bill maintains existing provisions for catastrophic leave related to illness or maternity, while adding this new bereavement leave option for public employees. The Department of Shared Administrative Services will be responsible for establishing policies and procedures to implement these new leave provisions.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb241&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R