This bill amends the General Laws regarding Temporary Disability Insurance Contributions and Benefits, significantly increasing the taxable wage base from $38,000 to $100,000 or the annual earnings required for maximum weekly benefits. It modifies the employee contribution rate calculation, establishing that for benefit years beginning on or after January 1, 2027, the contribution rate will be 5.38%, and for benefit years beginning on or after January 1, 2028, it will be 5.77%.

Additionally, the bill introduces a temporary caregiver insurance program, allowing employees to receive wage replacement benefits while caring for a seriously ill family member or bonding with a new child. The definition of eligible family members is expanded to include siblings. The act also amends the duration period of caregiver benefits, which will be four weeks for benefit years beginning prior to January 1, 2027, and will increase to eight weeks for benefit years beginning on or after January 1, 2028. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
6066  SUB A: 28-40-1