The Pennsylvania Family and Medical Leave Act establishes a comprehensive program to provide paid family and medical leave benefits to employees in the Commonwealth. The Act mandates the creation of the Pennsylvania Family and Medical Leave Program within one year of its effective date, with benefits to be paid no later than two years after the program's establishment. The Department of Labor and Industry will administer the program, which includes setting benefit amounts, providing necessary documentation for claims, and ensuring confidentiality of individual claim records. The Act outlines eligibility criteria, duration and amount of benefits, and employer responsibilities regarding employee notifications. It emphasizes the importance of paid leave for public health and economic stability, particularly for smaller businesses, and establishes a Family and Medical Leave Fund to support the program financially.

The bill also introduces provisions for civil actions, allowing employees to bring grievances to court and stipulating that defendants must pay reasonable attorney fees if the plaintiff prevails. It ensures job protection for individuals taking leave, prohibits retaliation against employees exercising their rights under the Act, and mandates that leave taken under this Act runs concurrently with federal family and medical leave laws. Additionally, the bill requires employers to provide written notice of employee rights and establishes an advisory board to assist in program implementation. The legislation aims to provide essential support for employees needing time off for family and medical reasons while ensuring the program's sustainability and compliance.