The bill amends Arkansas Code 6-17-122, which pertains to optional paid maternity leave policies for public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools. It introduces a new subsection that specifies how certain days are counted towards maternity leave. Specifically, it states that any holiday or designated non-class day during a contract year will not be included in the total number of maternity leave days approved for an individual eligible for paid maternity leave. Additionally, if a day approved as maternity leave falls on an unpaid contract day, it will still qualify for paid maternity leave.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the definition of "school" to encompass public school districts, open-enrollment public charter schools, and private schools that offer maternity leave under this section or according to their own policies. This amendment aims to provide clearer guidelines for maternity leave entitlements and ensure that eligible personnel are not penalized for taking leave on days when classes are not in session.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1719 V2 - 4-7-2025 10:42 AM: 6-17-122
Old version HB1719 Original - 3-10-2025 01:36 PM: 6-17-122
HB 1719: 6-17-122
Act 905: 6-17-122