The bill aims to enhance Vermont's family leave policies by ensuring inclusivity and equity, particularly for LGBTQ+ families, low-income workers, and individuals in nontraditional family structures. It introduces new definitions and provisions, such as "bereavement leave," which allows employees to take time off due to the death of a family member, and "safe leave," which provides leave for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The bill also expands the definition of "family member" to include a broader range of relationships, ensuring that employees can take leave to care for various individuals in their lives.

Additionally, the bill amends existing provisions regarding parental and family leave, allowing employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for various reasons, including safe leave and qualifying exigencies related to military service. It specifies that employees may use up to two weeks of their leave for bereavement purposes and outlines the documentation required for different types of leave. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and emphasizes the importance of providing equitable access to caregiving leave without imposing undue burdens on employees.

Statutes affected:
As Passed By the House -- Official: 21-471, 21-472, 21-472a, 21-472c
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 21-471, 21-472, 21-472a, 21-472c
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 21-471, 21-472, 21-472a, 21-472c
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 21-471, 21-472, 21-472a
As Enacted: 21-471, 21-472, 21-472a