This bill mandates that private employers in Arkansas provide unpaid leave to veteran employees on Veterans Day, which is observed annually on November 11. It introduces a new section to the Arkansas Code, defining "veteran" and outlining the requirements for requesting unpaid leave. To qualify, veteran employees must give written notice at least one month in advance and provide proof of their veteran status, such as a DD Form 214. Employers are required to grant this leave unless they can demonstrate that the employee's absence would adversely affect public health and safety or cause significant economic or operational disruption.
Additionally, the bill clarifies that employers are not prohibited from offering paid leave for Veterans Day to other employees, regardless of their veteran status. The Secretary of the Department of Labor and Licensing is authorized to create rules for the implementation of this section. This legislation aims to honor and support veterans by ensuring they have the opportunity to observe Veterans Day without the concern of losing income.