This bill proposes significant updates to Arizona's employment statutes by introducing a new article focused on family and medical leave insurance benefits. It adds key definitions such as "covered individual," "family and medical leave insurance benefits," and "safe leave," clarifying eligibility and the scope of benefits. Starting January 1, 2028, eligible individuals can receive benefits for various qualifying reasons, including caring for a new child or a family member with a serious health condition. The bill outlines the maximum duration of benefits, payment timelines, and the calculation of benefit amounts based on the individual's average weekly wage relative to the state average. It also mandates payroll contributions from both employers and employees to fund the leave insurance program and emphasizes employee rights, including job protection and the prohibition of retaliatory actions by employers.

Additionally, the bill allows self-employed individuals to elect coverage for a minimum of three years and outlines the withdrawal process. It mandates the establishment of a family and medical leave insurance program by the commission, which includes procedures for filing claims and timely notification to employers. The bill emphasizes confidentiality of individual records and requires the director to adopt necessary implementation rules. It also includes provisions for a public education campaign about benefits availability, establishes a family and medical leave insurance fund, and mandates annual reports on program participation and fund balances. The bill includes a severability clause and declares it an emergency measure, making it effective immediately upon passage.