ATL Standard

Atlanta, Feb 15 2024 - Speaker Jon Burns (R-Newington) has expressed his support for the passage of House Bill 1010, sponsored by Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones (R-Milton), which aims to expand paid parental leave for state employees. The bill, which recently passed in the House, seeks to increase paid parental leave from three weeks to six weeks for state employees and teachers across the state.

"I am proud that the House has voted to pass this important piece of legislation," said Speaker Burns. "Our state employees work tirelessly to serve our communities, and with this legislation, we have sent a clear message that we value and support our working families across this state. It's crucial that we support them in both their professional and personal lives, and this expansion of benefits demonstrates our commitment to ensuring a healthy work-life balance and recognizing the importance of family."

Speaker Pro Tem Jones also emphasized the significance of this legislation, stating, "This would provide a low cost, high-value benefit to help recruit and retain employees and tangibly demonstrates our respect and support for them at a most significant and life-changing time in their lives."

Currently, state employees are entitled to 120 hours, or three weeks, of paid parental leave following the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child in their home. However, HB 1010 seeks to double this time, allowing for 240 hours, or six weeks, of paid parental leave.

The passing of this bill is seen as a positive step towards supporting state employees and recognizing the importance of family. The expansion of paid parental leave will provide employees with the opportunity to spend more time with their families after the birth or adoption of a child. It is also expected to help recruit and retain employees by offering a valuable benefit that demonstrates the state's commitment to its workforce.

The full text of HB 1010 can be found [here](link to the full text of the bill).

This move by the House reflects the growing recognition of the importance of paid parental leave in creating a supportive work environment for employees. As more states and organizations prioritize work-life balance and family-friendly policies, it is hoped that this legislation will serve as a model for other states to follow.