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Senate committee hears hours-long testimony on Montana Family and Medical Leave Insurance Act
Summary
Senate Business and Labor heard hours of testimony on SB 325, the Montana Family and Medical Leave Insurance Act, which would create a fund paid by employer and employee contributions (capped at 1% of wages split 50/50) to provide up to 12 weeks of paid leave. Supporters cited workforce retention and family health; opponents warned of small‑business costs. No vote was taken.
Sen. Derek Harvey, sponsor of Senate Bill 325, told the Senate Business and Labor Committee the bill would create a statewide insurance fund to provide paid family and medical leave to eligible Montana workers.
"An eligible worker would be able to take a maximum of 480 hours or 12 weeks in one benefit year," Harvey said. He told the committee contributions would be split equally between employers and employees and that the contribution rate is capped at 1 percent of wages. The bill sets a $1,000 weekly benefit cap and directs the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) to administer benefits, contribution rates and eligibility rules.
Proponents who testified included tribal representatives, early‑childhood advocates, the Montana Budget and Policy Center, labor unions, nurses and small‑business owners. Heather O'Loughlin of the Montana Budget and…
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