Bill > S1339

This bill expands paid family and medical leave coverage to include all educators by modifying definitions and contribution requirements in existing Massachusetts law. Specifically, the bill adds employees of school districts and educational collaboratives to the definition of "covered individuals" who are eligible for family and medical leave benefits. It also modifies the definition of "employer" to explicitly include school districts and educational collaboratives as covered employers, exempting them from certain prior requirements. The bill ensures that educators taking family or medical leave will continue to accrue employment benefits like vacation time, sick leave, and seniority, and that their health insurance will be maintained during their leave. For school districts and educational collaboratives, the bill stipulates that their required contributions to the Family and Employment Security Trust Fund will be paid using income surtax revenue remitted by the commonwealth, effectively reducing the financial burden on these educational institutions. Additionally, the bill clarifies that benefits will not be paid during established vacation periods or holiday recesses if the individual is expected to return to work afterward. This legislation aims to provide comprehensive leave protection and financial support for educators across Massachusetts.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1339