Bill > HB446

This bill establishes a comprehensive Paid Parental Leave Act in New Mexico that creates a state-sponsored program to provide leave compensation for employees and self-employed individuals. Beginning January 1, 2028, eligible workers will be entitled to up to six weeks of leave compensation and an additional three weeks of supplemental leave compensation if they opt into the program by contributing 0.5% of their wages or self-employment income from January 2027 to 2030. The program will be administered by the Workforce Solutions Department and funded through a new Supplemental Paid Parental Leave Fund, which will be created within the state treasury. Employees can use the leave to bond with a new child within twelve months of birth, adoption, or foster placement. The compensation will be calculated based on the worker's average weekly wages, with a maximum weekly benefit equal to the state's annual mean wage divided by 52. The bill includes protections for employees, such as job restoration rights, prohibition of retaliation, and maintenance of health insurance benefits during leave. It also establishes a temporary advisory committee to help implement the program and preempts local governments from creating competing parental leave programs, ensuring a standardized approach across New Mexico.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=446&year=25