Georgia Expands Paid Parental Leave for State Employees and Educators

[Omaha Steve]

https://www.abetterbalance.org/georgia-expands-paid-parental-leave-for-state-employees-and-educators/

The expansion of paid parental leave for state government employees and educators is an exciting step for Georgia, and we are committed to continuing to advocate for paid leave for all Georgia families.

Posted: July 22, 2024

In 2021, Georgia made history as the first Southern state to pass a paid parental leave policy covering both state government employees and educators. This step marked a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to supporting its workforce. Now, in 2024, Georgia lawmakers have once again demonstrated their dedication to paid leave.

As of July 1, 2024, educators and state government employees will now benefit from six weeks of paid parental leave for the birth of a child or the placement of a minor child for adoption or foster care. This new law not only doubles the previous leave from three to six weeks but also extends eligibility to charter school employees and includes an employee notice requirement, promoting awareness about the availability of paid leave.

The efforts of A Better Balance’s Southern Office, in close collaboration with partners across Georgia, have played a crucial role in expanding access to paid family leave in Georgia. As an active member of the Georgia Coalition for Paid Leave Steering Committee, A Better Balance has provided essential support by offering technical assistance to partners, drafting talking points, advising on strategy, and attending community events to raise awareness and garner support.

The expansion of Georgia’s 2021 policy demonstrates the value of paid parental leave and the eagerness of lawmakers to build on the policy’s success. House Speaker Jon Burns emphasized the strong support for HB 1010, stating, “The House initially passed this initiative in 2021 to establish paid parental leave for our state workers. Now, we are taking an additional step to ensure these employees can spend even more time with their families after having or adopting a child.”

FULL story at link above.