Bill > S1354

This bill introduces a new provision for bereavement leave in Massachusetts labor law, requiring employers to permit employees to take up to 10 business days of leave within a 12-month period following the death of a family member, which is broadly defined to include children, parents, guardians, siblings, spouses, and persons in substantive dating or engagement relationships who reside with the employee. The leave can be used for making funeral arrangements, attending funeral services, grieving, or preparing for legal proceedings related to the death. Employees must initiate the leave within 30 days of receiving notice of the family member's death, and employers have the discretion to determine whether the leave is paid or unpaid. The bill does not override existing agreements or laws that provide more generous leave provisions. Importantly, the requirement only applies to employers with 10 or more employees in Massachusetts, and employers may request proof of death. The new law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving businesses time to prepare for the new requirement.

Budget and Finance, Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1354