House Committee approves 12 weeks paid leave for eligible state employees

In a pivotal meeting on April 3, 2025, the South Carolina House Ways and Means Committee gathered to discuss significant legislative changes, including an expansion of paid parental leave for state employees. The atmosphere was charged with bipartisan support as committee members rallied around House Bill 3,645, which proposes to double the paid leave from six weeks to twelve weeks for eligible state employees, including those at state institutions of higher education.

The bill aims to clarify previous ambiguities regarding who qualifies for this leave, ensuring that professors and other staff are included. In addition to the primary caregivers, the bill also extends four weeks of paid leave to those who do not give birth but are involved in the child's care, such as co-parents or adoptive parents. This change reflects a growing recognition of diverse family structures and the need for supportive policies that accommodate them.

As the discussion unfolded, concerns were raised about the potential financial implications for school districts, with some stakeholders suggesting that the bill could impose an unfunded mandate. However, the committee opted to proceed without amendments on this front, indicating a willingness to revisit the issue if necessary during further legislative discussions.

The committee's approval of the bill was met with a resounding vote of 22 to nothing, signaling strong consensus among members. The proposed changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2025, allowing time for the Department of Administration to implement the new policy.

In addition to the parental leave bill, the committee also reviewed Senate Bill 291, a contingency resolution designed to ensure that critical state government operations remain funded in the event that appropriations bills are not passed. This measure, too, received unanimous support, highlighting the committee's commitment to maintaining government functionality amid ongoing budget discussions.

Lastly, House Bill 3,841, which seeks to stabilize property tax rates upon death, was introduced. This bill aims to keep the property tax rate at 4%, preventing potential increases to 6% that could burden families during difficult times.

As the meeting concluded, the committee's actions underscored a proactive approach to addressing the needs of state employees and the broader community, reflecting a commitment to fostering a supportive environment for families across South Carolina. The discussions and decisions made during this session will likely resonate throughout the state, shaping policies that impact the lives of many residents.