The proposed bill aims to establish a paid parental leave pilot program in West Virginia, introducing a new article to the Code of West Virginia. This program will allow eligible state employees to receive up to 12 weeks of paid leave during a 12-month period for the birth or adoption of a child, specifically for children born or adopted between July 1, 2025, and July 1, 2027. Employees will receive 90% of their average weekly wage, capped at $1,000 per week, and the leave is in addition to any accrued annual or sick leave. Employers are required to maintain group health insurance coverage for employees during their leave, and employees will retain their position and seniority upon returning to work.

Additionally, the bill mandates that employers respond to annual surveys conducted by the Department of Labor regarding the program's implementation and impact. The department will also report findings to the Joint Committee on Government Organization, evaluating the program's effectiveness and making recommendations for its future. The pilot program is set to expire on December 31, 2028, unless further legislative action is taken. The bill includes provisions for emergency rule-making authority to facilitate its implementation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 21-5J-1, 21-5J-2, 21-5J-3, 21-5J-4, 21-5J-5, 21-5J-6, 21-5J-7, 21-5J-8, 21-5J-9, 21-5J-10