The bill amends RCW 50A.15.020 to modify the claim period duration for the paid family and medical leave program in Washington State. Notably, the maximum duration for paid family leave is increased from 52 to 78 consecutive calendar weeks, and the same extension applies to paid medical leave. Additionally, the combined total of family and medical leave benefits is adjusted to a maximum of 16 times the typical workweek hours, with the possibility of extending to 18 times for employees experiencing serious health conditions related to pregnancy.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that the minimum claim duration for leave is set at four consecutive hours, and it specifies that any paid leave benefits used during the postnatal period must be classified as medical leave unless the employee opts for family leave. The bill also outlines the calculation of weekly benefits based on the employee's average weekly wage, ensuring that the maximum weekly benefit is capped at $1,000, with adjustments made annually based on the state average weekly wage.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 50A.15.020