Background
WA Paid Family and Medical Leave Law (PFML) went into effect on January 1, 2020, for employers with more than 50 employees in WA. This law provides eligible employees paid time off to care for themselves or for a family member’s serious health condition, for bonding reasons, or for qualified military-related events. Effective June 9, 2022, Washington (WA) will amend their PFML again to allow paid family leave for the purpose of bereavement under specific circumstances. In addition, this amendment also expands benefits for post-natal care, publication requirements by the Washington Employment Security Department (ESD), and provisions for employees subject to a union contract.
Summary
New Leave Reason for Family Leave
Under this amended law starting on June 9th, employees may use paid family leave during the seven calendar days after the death of a family member for whom the employee:
- Would have qualified for medical leave for the birth of their child, or;
- Would have qualified for family leave to bond with their child following their birth or placement
Clarification of “Postnatal Period”
This amendment also clarifies that for leave taken during the first six weeks after birth (defined as the “postnatal period”), any individual eligible for benefits based upon incapacity due to pregnancy or for prenatal care will be presumed to be on paid medical leave, unless the employee chooses to use paid family leave during that period. Employees utilizing paid medical leave during the postnatal period will not need to provide a certification of a serious health condition.
Repeal of Collective Bargaining Agreement Exception
Currently, the law includes an exception provision that outlines that an employee subject to a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which was in effect on October 19, 2017, is ineligible for WA PFML benefits until the CBA is reopened or renegotiated. The amendment provides a December 31, 2023 expiration date for the exception provision.
Notifications of Employers with Voluntary Plans
The Washington Employment Security Department (ESD), which administers this state leave program, must now publish on ESD’s website a current list of all employers that run their own “voluntary plan” that was approved by ESD.
Employer Next Steps
- Employers are encouraged to audit their current policies to ensure compliance with the amended WA PFML changes.
- Employers should review all CBAs and notate the repeal of the exception on December 31, 2023.
- If you are a Full-Service or Virtual HR client and would like our assistance with updating your policy, please email us.
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This content is provided with the understanding that HR Knowledge is not rendering legal advice. While every effort is made to provide current information, the law changes regularly and laws may vary depending on the state or municipality. The material is made available for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal advice or your professional judgment. You should review applicable laws in your jurisdiction and consult experienced counsel for legal advice. If you have any questions regarding this content, please contact HR Knowledge at 508.339.1300 or email us.
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