The proposed "Babies at Work Act" aims to allow public employees in Arkansas who are parents or legal guardians to bring their infants, defined as children six months or younger, to their workplace. The act emphasizes the dual responsibilities of public employees towards their jobs and families, particularly during the critical first six months of a child's life. It seeks to enhance employee retention by providing this flexibility, thereby supporting parents in balancing work and family obligations.

Under the new legislation, the head of a state agency is granted the authority to permit public employees to bring their infants to work and to establish internal policies regarding the work environment, performance standards, and safety guidelines for infants. The act also clarifies definitions related to "infant," "public employee," and "state agency," ensuring that the provisions apply specifically to biological, adopted, or foster children under six months of age. Additionally, it allows for the possibility of bringing older children to the workplace, thereby providing further support for working parents.