Senate Bill 322 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 8-50-813, to enhance the paid leave provisions for state employees. The bill stipulates that eligible employees are entitled to six workweeks of paid leave for the birth or adoption of a child, or for caring for a family member with a serious health condition, provided they give thirty days' notice to their appointing authority. If the employee is unable to provide thirty days' notice due to unforeseen circumstances, they must notify as soon as reasonably possible. The bill also clarifies that this absence will be considered full-time employment for the purpose of calculating service anniversary dates.

Additionally, the bill limits the paid leave to a maximum of six workweeks within a twelve-month period, which can be taken intermittently or on a reduced schedule as per the federal Family and Medical Leave Act. It defines "eligible employee," "family member," and "serious health condition" to provide clarity on who qualifies for the leave and under what circumstances. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 8-50-813(a), 8-50-813, 8-50-813(d), 8-50-813(e)