The proposed bill establishes the Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Act in Nebraska, set to take effect on January 1, 2028. It defines key terms such as "covered individual," "covered employer," and "family and medical leave benefits," and outlines qualifying reasons for leave, including caring for a new child or a family member with a serious health condition. The maximum leave duration is ten weeks, with benefits calculated based on the individual's average weekly wage. The bill also includes provisions for filing claims, determining eligibility, and ensuring that employers maintain health benefits during leave. Notably, it protects individuals from retaliatory actions by employers for exercising their rights under the act.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws related to the Unemployment Compensation Fund and the Nebraska Health Care Cash Fund. It ensures that funds in the Unemployment Compensation Fund remain mingled and undivided, preventing denial of benefits based on employer contributions. The bill also introduces provisions for the Nebraska Health Care Cash Fund, allowing specific fund transfers while emphasizing non-discrimination in funding for educational institutions. It mandates a transfer for pancreatic cancer research contingent upon matching funds and repeals affected sections of the Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the integrity and efficiency of the Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance program while addressing related funding issues.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48-652, 71-7611