Bill > S480

This bill establishes the North Carolina Paid Family Leave Insurance Act, which creates a state-administered program providing paid family and medical leave benefits to eligible workers beginning January 1, 2027. Employees and self-employed individuals who contribute to the program can receive up to 12-18 weeks of paid leave for reasons including caring for a new child, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, addressing their own serious health condition, caring for a covered service member, or handling qualifying exigencies related to military service. The benefits will be funded through payroll contributions, with employees paying up to 50% of the contribution and employers remitting the full amount to a dedicated fund. The benefit amount is calculated based on the worker's average weekly wage, with lower-wage workers receiving a higher percentage of their wages (up to 90%) and a minimum weekly benefit of $100. The program provides job protection, requiring employers to restore workers to their previous position or an equivalent one after leave, and prohibits retaliation against employees who use these benefits. The Division of Employment Security will administer the program, establish claim procedures, and conduct public education efforts to inform workers about the new benefit. Self-employed individuals can also opt into the program for a minimum of three years. The bill aims to support workers during significant life and family events while providing job security and partial wage replacement.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S480