HI HB2598

Requires the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to establish a paid family leave program by January 1, 2021, covering all employees of employers with one or more employees.

Program must include expanded temporary disability insurance, progressive wage replacement favoring low-income workers, and job protection for employees using paid family leave.

Paid family leave program shall begin processing payments by July 1, 2022.

Department must submit progress reports to the legislature prior to regular sessions in 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024, including recommendations for additional staff and proposed legislation.

Appropriates funds for fiscal year 2018-2019 to the department, including hiring of one full-time program manager; effective date is July 1, 2030, except appropriation takes effect July 1, 2018.