The proposed bill establishes the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Benefits Act in West Virginia, introducing a new article to the state code that will take effect on January 1, 2026. It outlines eligibility requirements for individuals seeking family and medical leave insurance benefits, which can be claimed for reasons such as caring for a new child, a family member with a serious health condition, or a covered service member. The bill allows for a maximum of 12 weeks of benefits, providing 67% of the individual's average weekly wages, subject to specified minimum and maximum limits.

To fund the program, the bill mandates payroll contributions from both employers and employees and includes protections against retaliatory actions by employers for exercising rights under the act. It emphasizes the maintenance of health care benefits during leave and outlines enforcement mechanisms for the rights provided. Additionally, the bill requires the Insurance Commissioner to implement a public education program and coordinate the new benefits with existing leave laws, ensuring comprehensive support for individuals taking family and medical leave. Key provisions also include the establishment of a special revenue account, annual reporting to the Legislature, and specific language regarding the coordination of leave with federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-2S-1, 16-2S-2, 16-2S-3, 16-2S-4, 16-2S-5, 16-2S-6, 16-2S-7, 16-2S-8, 16-2S-9, 16-2S-10, 16-2S-11, 16-2S-12, 16-2S-13, 16-2S-14, 16-2S-15, 16-2S-16, 16-2S-17, 16-2S-18, 16-2S-19, 16-2S-20