The bill seeks to enhance support for pilots applying for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) medical certificates by amending existing definitions and provisions related to medical leave. It introduces new legal language that expands the definition of "medical leave" to encompass any leave taken by a pilot during the FAA medical certificate application process, particularly concerning mental and neurologic standards. This includes periods of reconsideration following a denial of a medical certificate. Additionally, the bill amends definitions in Washington state law, specifically in RCW 50A.05.010 and 50A.15.060, to clarify terms related to employment, family leave, and serious health conditions, ensuring they are comprehensive and relevant to the context of the bill.

Moreover, the bill addresses conditions for qualifying for paid family and medical leave, specifying that restorative dental or plastic surgery after an injury or cancer removal, as well as mental illness due to stress or allergies, can be classified as serious health conditions. It stipulates that while substance abuse treatment may qualify for leave, it must be for treatment by a licensed provider. The bill also allows family leave for caring for a family member undergoing substance abuse treatment, protecting employees from adverse actions for taking such leave. A significant provision mandates that once pilots exhaust their paid family and medical leave during the FAA medical certificate application process, employers must compensate them for their regular hours until a final decision is made, with compensation ceasing if the certificate is ultimately denied.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 50A.05.010, 50A.10.010