Bill > S2477

This bill establishes a new family and medical leave and temporary disability leave insurance program, creating a "Department of Family and Medical Leave" to administer claims for benefits. The program will provide wage replacement for employees and participating independent contractors who need to take time off for family care, such as bonding with a new child, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or for qualifying exigencies related to military service, or for temporary disability leave due to their own serious health condition. Eligibility requires a minimum number of hours worked or contributions made, and benefits are capped at a certain weekly amount, which will be adjusted annually for inflation. The program will be funded through contributions from employers and employees, with provisions for small businesses and independent contractors. Employers are required to provide notice to employees about the program and are prohibited from retaliating against employees who exercise their rights under this chapter. The bill also outlines procedures for filing claims, appeals, and the confidentiality of medical information, with various sections taking effect on different dates in 2018 and 2019.