Bill > HB193

This bill establishes a comprehensive paid parental leave program in Alaska, set to begin on January 1, 2027, that will provide eligible employees with between 8 and 26 weeks of paid leave after the birth, adoption, or placement of a child. Employees will fund the program through a special 0.15% contribution from their wages, and employers will contribute an additional 0.20% to a parental leave fund account. To qualify, an employee must have earned at least $2,500 in wages during two calendar quarters of their base period and can use the leave within 12 months of a child's birth, adoption, or placement. The bill allows employees to choose a standard or accelerated benefit option, where they can receive double the weekly benefit amount but for half the duration. Employees are protected from discrimination and are entitled to return to their job with the same benefits and conditions. The program also includes provisions for coordinating with existing leave policies, maintaining health insurance during leave, and preventing employment retaliation. Additionally, the bill increases dependent allowances for unemployment benefits and ties future increases to the Consumer Price Index. The Department of Labor will be responsible for administering the program, processing claims, and conducting public education about the new benefit.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=HB193