SB 332 Summary

• Establishes a paid family leave program (Family Leave Optimal Coverage Act) effective January 1, 2026, providing up to 15 weeks of paid leave annually for covered individuals for reasons including childbirth/adoption, serious health conditions, military family exigencies, safe leave, and bereavement.

• Requires employers to remit payroll contributions (percentage of wages determined by director) starting January 1, 2025, into a Family Leave Optimal Coverage Fund; employees may be charged up to 50% of contribution costs through payroll deduction.

• Provides wage replacement benefits equal to 90% of average weekly wage up to 50% of state average weekly wage, plus 50% of wages above that threshold, with a maximum weekly benefit of 65% of state average weekly wage.

• Guarantees job restoration upon return from family leave with same or equivalent position, continuation of health care benefits during leave, and prohibits employer discrimination or retaliation for requesting or using family leave.

• Allows employers to operate approved private plans meeting or exceeding state requirements as an alternative to contributing to the state fund; creates Department of Labor procedures for claims, hearings, and enforcement with civil fines for violations.