A legislative movement to provide some employee income when they must take time away from work to care for family members has pushed a bill through the General Assembly. Despite resistance from businesses and potential opposition from Governor Glenn Youngkin, the bill, SB373, will proceed for review. This legislation stipulates that individuals can receive up to 80% of their pay, capped at a limit of eight weeks, for family-related or personal serious health matters.

State Sen. Jennifer Boysko, D-Fairfax, expressed support for the bill, saying this provides the opportunity for family members to take care of their kin or new babies with dignity without losing their earnings. She shared the story of Chrischa Ives of Virginia Beach, who lost her daughter Gabby Aldea to Hardikar syndrome, to emphasize the need for a paid family leave program.

This legislation would cover various situations such as care for a child, serious health conditions and the need to respond to a family member’s military orders. The maximum benefit would not exceed 80% of the regional average weekly wage. A new Family and Medical Leave Insurance Trust Fund would be established, drawing finance from employer contributions and payroll deductions. The state plans to launch this fund in 2026, with claims to start being paid out in 2021.

Currently, only private insurance provides paid leave and this is only available through a small number of employers which results in many Virginians being excluded. Paid family leaves are, however, mandatory in states such as California, Colorado, New York, and others. The bill was passed the Senate on a 21-19 vote, and the House on a 51-49 vote.

Though separate from the topic of paid family leave, for Californians who need to navigate this process in their state, they can reach out to the California Employment Development Department (EDD). Californians who need to get in touch with the EDD can visit a helpful resource online at eddcaller.com. This platform provides information on how to directly contact EDD representatives, simplifying the process for people who need assistance with their claims, payments, or have various other inquiries. Therefore, this tool significantly reduces the stress and hassle involved, enabling quicker resolutions.