The bill amends various sections of the General Laws related to Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and introduces new provisions to expand benefits and eligibility. It expands the definitions of eligible family members for temporary caregiver leave to include "grandchild" and "care recipient." The maximum duration of temporary caregiver benefits will increase incrementally, allowing for up to ten weeks of benefits starting January 1, 2027, and up to twelve weeks starting January 1, 2028.

Additionally, the bill allows self-employed Rhode Island residents to opt into the TDI program by filing an enrollment form. However, they will not be eligible for benefits until they have made twelve months of contributions. The bill also stipulates that self-employed individuals who fail to meet quarterly reporting or contribution requirements will be ineligible for benefits until any outstanding payments are settled.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a pecuniary penalty for employers or self-employed individuals who fail to make required contributions or reports, ensuring that penalties can be collected through civil action if necessary. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7968: 28-39-26