Council approves Madison National Life contract to administer paid family/medical leave

Virginia City’s council voted Oct. 28 to contract with Madison National Life to administer the city’s paid family and medical leave (PFML) program for an initial one-year term.

HR staff and consultants told council the $0.77-per-payroll-dollar rate produced an estimated 2026 administration cost of about $76,000 based on current census numbers; the fee is charged against payroll. HR said the city could opt to pass up to 50% of the administrative cost to employees in accordance with state rules, subject to negotiations and memoranda of understanding.

Council discussion focused on whether the program should be kept in-house for a trial period or outsourced immediately. Councilor Bach Schneider said she preferred an in-house start to avoid unknown long-term costs; Councilor Johnson argued for outsourcing to free staff time for other duties. The council approved the Madison National Life contract on a 5–2 vote.