MS HB1361

Establishes the Mississippi Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program administered by the Department of Employment Security, effective January 1, 2027, providing up to 12 weeks of paid leave per year for covered individuals.

Provides paid family and medical leave for employees caring for newborns/newly adopted children, family members with serious health conditions, personal serious health conditions, or qualifying military exigencies; benefits equal 90% of average weekly wage with a minimum of $30 and maximum of state average weekly wage.

Requires employers to collect employee premiums (percentage of wages determined by State Treasurer using actuarial principles) beginning January 1, 2026, and remit to the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Fund created in state treasury.

Protects employees from retaliation or discharge for taking covered leave and requires employers to maintain health insurance and restore employees to equivalent positions upon return from leave; establishes enforcement mechanisms with liability for violations.

Requires employers to provide written notice to employees upon hiring and annually about program benefits, procedures, and rights; department must conduct public education campaign in English, Spanish, and languages spoken by 10% or more of state population.