The bill amends Section 110.221 of the Florida Statutes to establish a framework for paid parental leave for state employees. It defines "paid parental leave" as fully paid leave for parents following the birth or adoption of a child and mandates that the state provide 12 weeks of such leave without requiring employees to use their annual or sick leave during this period. Additionally, employees are entitled to accumulate benefits during their leave. The bill also prohibits the state from terminating employees due to pregnancy or adoption and ensures that employees can take parental leave without facing denial or mandatory leave requirements.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the definitions of "family" and "family medical leave," while also making adjustments to the language regarding the state's obligations concerning parental leave. It specifies that the state may not refuse to grant paid parental leave or unpaid family medical leave for up to six months. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 825 Filed: 110.221