Bill > HB2598

This bill enacts the Kansas Paid Family Leave Act, establishing a program to provide paid leave for eligible individuals in Kansas. "Covered individuals" are defined as employees who meet specific work hour or day requirements over the preceding 12 months, or self-employed individuals who elect coverage. The act defines "family member" broadly to include children, parents, spouses, domestic partners, grandparents, siblings, and other individuals with a close familial relationship, as well as one designated person for care. Paid leave can be used for bonding with a new child, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, recovering from one's own serious health condition, or for certain needs of military families. Benefits, which begin on July 1, 2027, are calculated as 67% of the individual's average weekly wage, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,000 starting January 1, 2028, and a minimum of $100 per week. Premiums for this program will be assessed starting January 1, 2027, based on wages, and can be deducted from employee paychecks, with employers having the option to cover all or part of the employee's share. The collected premiums will go into a dedicated "family and medical leave insurance fund" administered by the pooled money investment board. Employers are required to provide written notice to employees about their rights under this act and must restore employees to their previous or an equivalent position upon returning from leave, while maintaining healthcare benefits during the leave period. The act also prohibits employers from interfering with or retaliating against employees for exercising their rights under the program.

Business and Industry

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2598/