SB 19-188: FAMLI Family Medical Leave Insurance Program (Senate Finance Amendment L045)

The bill creates a study of the implementation of a paid family and medical leave program in the state by: Requiring the department of labor and employment (department) to contract with experts in the field of paid family and medical leave; Requiring the department to make requests for information from third parties that may be willing to administer all or part of a paid family and medical leave program; Creating the family and medical leave implementation task force (task force) that is responsible for recommending a plan to implement a paid family and medical leave program for the state; and Requiring an actuarial study of the final plan recommended by the task force.(Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.)  The amendment in question allows local governments to "decline to participate" in paid family leave.

This bill's original purpose was to create a paid leave process. CEA supported the ability for both students and our members will have paid leave for illnesses, new children, and all the other activities covered by the Family and Medical Leave Act as well as domestic violence situations. Further ensuring both fiscal and job security for all Coloradans that would have supported our students and members. CEA will continue to watch the work group and potential legislation next session. However, the amendment in question would have limited the ability of members as well as many families of students to participate in a paid family leave program.

NOTE: CEA is glad to see a continued exploration of a state wide law for paid family and medical leave. The final bill creates a work group to study implementation and this is a step in the right direction.