The bill H. 3490 proposes amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws, specifically Sections 8-11-150 and 8-11-155, to enhance the provisions for paid parental leave for eligible state employees. The key changes include increasing the duration of paid parental leave from six weeks to twelve weeks for employees who give birth, and from two weeks to four weeks for those who do not give birth but are eligible. The definitions of "child" and "eligible state employee" have also been clarified, ensuring that no child can have more than two parents eligible for this leave and that the definition encompasses full-time employees across various state institutions.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which paid parental leave can be taken, including stipulations on the expiration of leave, the inability to accumulate unused leave, and the requirement for leave to be taken consecutively, with some exceptions for foster parents. It also specifies that legal holidays will not count against the leave and that the paid parental leave will run concurrently with other forms of leave, such as those under the Family Medical Leave Act. The Division of Human Resources is tasked with creating regulations to implement these changes. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 8-11-150
Latest Version: 8-11-150