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RICHMOND, Va. — Today, SB1122, a bill to expand access to Paid Family and Medical Leave for millions of hardworking Virginians, passed out of the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee by a 10 to 5 vote. The bill, patroned by Senator Jennifer Boysko (D-Fairfax), will now move to the floor for a full Senate vote.
In Virginia, 78% of workers lack access to Paid Family and Medical Leave. The bill would establish a Paid Family and Medical Leave fund to ensure up to 12 weeks of paid time off. The program will provide a wage replacement of 80% and protect workers’ jobs and access to health coverage for the duration of their leave.
Freedom Virginia co-Executive Director Rhena Hicks today released the following statement on the bill’s passage:
“We are pleased to see the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee take action today to advance this key legislation that will ensure all Virginians have access to Paid Family and Medical Leave. The bill would make Virginia the 14th state to establish this necessary program to expand access to Paid Family and Medical Leave. No one should have to choose between a paycheck and taking care of themselves or loved ones. It’s time to respect Virginians’ hard work by ensuring they can take paid leave and get ahead, and we look forward to the full vote on the Senate floor.”
House Paid Family and Medical Leave legislation, HB2531, patroned by Delegate Briana Sewell (D-Prince William), has been referred to the House Labor and Commerce Committee and will be heard later this month.
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