Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes the Montana Family and Medical Leave Insurance Act, which establishes a family and medical leave insurance fund financed by contributions from covered employers, employees, and self-employed individuals who choose to participate. The bill details eligibility criteria, benefit duration, and coordination with existing laws, while assigning the Commissioner of Labor and Industry the responsibility for maintaining fund solvency. Key provisions include the creation of an enterprise fund with contributions capped at 1% of an employee's monthly wages, a maximum weekly benefit of $1,000 or the average weekly wage, and a limit of 480 hours of benefits per benefit year. The bill also emphasizes job rights, health information privacy, and mandates public outreach to inform stakeholders about the new benefits.

The legislation includes strict regulations against false statements and erroneous payments, imposing civil penalties on employers for violations and disqualifying employees who willfully make false claims. It establishes an appeal process for both employers and employees to contest benefit determinations and requires employers to maintain health and pension benefits during leave. The bill also includes provisions for notifying tribal governments and is set to be codified as a new chapter in Title 39, with most sections effective July 1, 2026, and specific provisions taking effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 2-18-606, 45-6-301
SB0325_1(1): 2-18-606, 45-6-301
SB0325_1(2): 2-18-606, 45-6-301
SB0325_1(3): 2-18-606, 45-6-301
SB0325_1(4): 2-18-606, 45-6-301
SB0325_1: 2-18-606, 45-6-301