Bill > H0825

This bill amends Florida's existing parental and family medical leave statutes to establish a new paid parental leave policy for state employees in the career service. The bill defines "paid parental leave" as fully paid leave for a father or mother following the birth or adoption of a child and requires the state to provide 12 weeks of such leave. Importantly, the state cannot require employees to use their existing annual or sick leave during this period, and employees will continue to accumulate all standard benefits during their paid parental leave. The bill also reaffirms existing protections that prevent the state from terminating an employee's job due to pregnancy or child adoption and ensures that employees returning from parental leave will be reinstated to an equivalent position with preserved seniority and service credits. The new paid parental leave provisions will take effect on July 1, 2026, giving state agencies time to prepare for implementation. By codifying these protections, the bill aims to support state employees during significant family transitions while maintaining their job security and employment benefits.

Government Affairs

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/825