This bill amends existing laws regarding leave benefits for state employees in Oklahoma, specifically focusing on the introduction of parental leave. It updates the statutory reference in Section 840-2.20 and provides for parental leave for eligible state employees, replacing the term "maternity leave" with "parental leave" throughout the text. The bill stipulates that full-time employees who have been with the state agency for at least two years are entitled to six weeks of paid parental leave following the birth or adoption of a child. Additionally, it ensures that employees continue to receive their annual salary during this leave and that it does not replace sick leave due to pregnancy.
The bill also includes provisions for the accrual and accumulation of leave, with specific rates based on years of service, and allows for the carryover of annual leave under certain conditions. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining employee rights during leave and provides protections against disciplinary actions for employees who utilize their leave benefits appropriately. The effective date for the implementation of these changes is set for November 1, 2025.