OLYMPIA, WASH. (JUNE 30, 2017) – After many months of thoughtful, strategic planning by Democrats, Republicans, businesses and labor, Washington has proposed a balanced, bipartisan law to create statewide paid family and medical leave.
Stakeholders have logged long hours throughout the lengthy legislative session to make this new benefit a reality for Washingtonians.
“Major life events like the birth of a child or adoption aren’t something you can prepare for or recover from in a day. Too often moms and dads are not able to take time to bond with and care for their newborn, or recover from a serious injury,” said Sen. Joe Fain, R-Auburn, the measure’s prime sponsor. “Our paid family and medical leave plan provides economic stability for working families, while respecting the needs of employers.”
The proposal says:
- Employees are offered 12 weeks of medical leave, 12 weeks of family leave, for a cap of 16 if workers have experiences in both areas in a 12 month period
- Women with pregnancy complications can take two additional weeks.
- Employers and employees both contribute to the program through a payroll tax.
- Businesses with fewer than 50 employees are exempt from paying premiums. No matter the business size, employees will pay into the system and are eligible to receive benefits.
- Employees qualify for the program after working 820 hours.
- Requirements for employers are in line with the current Federal Family and Medical Leave Act standards.
In 2007, the state created a family leave program, but the law did not fulfill its potential because the Washington State Legislature was unable to pay for it. This year, lawmakers have found a way to make it work.
“Washington employers recognize the importance of taking time off work with pay during critical times, in fact many already provide a paid family leave benefit,” said Kris Johnson, president of the Association of Washington Business. “The statewide policy ensures that all employees will be able to care for their families when they need to, and it does it in a way that’s workable for employers, particularly small businesses.”
Washington now joins four states that guarantee paid family and medical leave: California, New Jersey, Rhode Island and New York.
“In the hospitality industry, our biggest asset is our employees,” said Anthony Anton, Washington Hospitality Association president and CEO. “This law protects our local businesses while allowing employees access to paid family leave benefits they can carry from job to job.”
This proposal is a win for the divided Legislature as it completes its third special session for 2017.
“With little agreement at the capitol, this legislation could pave the way for more compromise and forward momentum,” said Jan Teague, Washington Retail Association president and CEO.
“We would love to see lawmakers come to more agreements like these,” Teague said. “For paid family leave, lawmakers have done not only what is best for employees, but have also provided protections for employers who are the foundation of our state economy.”
Tonight the measure passed the Senate 31-12 with applause in the chamber. The measure now goes to the House and the Governor’s desk.
“Washington has crafted a one-of-a-kind program that works for all Washingtonians,” said Joe Gilliam President of the Northwest Grocery Association. “This is a great example of what happens when you roll up your sleeves and find solutions that work for all parties.”
For more information on Washington’s paid family and medical leave please visit Family.SenatorFain.com.
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