Rep. Kate McCann introduces H863 to preserve benefits and seniority during legislative leave

Representative Kate McCann introduced H863, an act to require continuation of employee benefits at the same employee contribution rate during legislative leave and to clarify seniority accrual for employees who take leave to serve in the General Assembly.

McCann said the bill incorporates language from Vermont's parental leave law so that employees on legislative leave would continue to pay the same share of premiums as when they are working full time. She described personal experience: as a public school teacher who reduced her work to 75 percent to serve, her share of premium contributions rose from 20 percent to 40 percent; state employees serving in the legislature, she said, continue paying the negotiated 20 percent. McCann said inconsistent interpretations by employers and state offices affect seniority, retirement credit and job status on return from leave.

The bill would: (1) clarify that seniority continues to accrue for employees during legislative leave, and (2) require continuation of benefits at the existing employee contribution rate while on leave. McCann said the bill also adds a non‑retaliation provision and that it could be amended to limit its scope to public‑sector employers if the committee preferred.

Committee members thanked McCann and shared related personal recollections; the House staff and committee suggested the bill may need drafting work to avoid placing legislators in a better position than other workers. No fiscal or formal committee actions were taken during the introduction.