HF 3888 Summary

• Creates a new Family and Medical Benefit Insurance program (Chapter 268B) providing paid leave benefits for employees and self-employed individuals for serious health conditions, pregnancy, family care, bonding, qualifying exigencies, and safety leave.

• Establishes employer premiums at 0.6% of covered wages beginning January 1, 2022, with employees able to contribute up to 50% of costs; benefits payable starting July 1, 2023.

• Provides up to 12 weeks of paid leave per benefit year with weekly benefits calculated as percentages of average weekly wage, capped at the state's average weekly wage.

• Strengthens paraprofessional requirements in schools by mandating paid orientation and professional development (minimum 16 hours annually), paid time to review individualized education programs, and ongoing supervision by licensed teachers.

• Appropriates funding to multiple state departments for implementation, including $10.8 million in FY2021 to the Department of Employment and Economic Development for program administration and outreach.