Representative defends amendment to expand parental leave to 12 weeks for state employees and teachers

Representative Cobb Hunter, the amendment sponsor, told the chamber the committee mendment to S 11 "allows 12 weeks of parental leave" for state employees and teachers and clarifies language related to stillborn births. She said the change was meant to "clear that up" after two different House bills addressing parental leave had been filed.

The change would extend the existing six-week benefit to 12 weeks for eligible state employees and teachers, and the sponsor said state agencies have not determined a precise fiscal impact. "The total impact on state expenditure is undetermined," Cobb Hunter said, adding that agencies' estimates would depend on the number of newly eligible employees who experience qualifying events.

Representative Magnuson pressed the sponsor on local costs, saying his school district reported a $500,000 price tag to implement the change. "The cost for them would be $500,000," Magnuson said, drawing an acknowledgment from Cobb Hunter that local estimates exist but stressing the committee relied on state agency projections.

Other members debated implementation details and options for districts, including substitute coverage and whether the change should be mandatory for school systems. Representative Collins framed the measure as "pro-family legislation" and urged members to weigh retention and recruitment benefits for teachers; Representative Terry Bill said some legislators preferred pay increases over additional leave.

After extended questioning and points of order, the chair placed the amendment on the contested calendar for further floor consideration and potential amendment. The transcript records the measure moved to the contested calendar and scheduling actions that leave the bill pending further action on the floor.