An act relating to medical leave for a serious injury

This bill expands Vermont's existing family leave protections to allow eligible employees to take unpaid leave for their own serious injury or illness, as well as for the serious injury or illness of certain family members. The law defines serious illness or injury as conditions that pose imminent danger of death, require hospitalization, or need ongoing physician-directed home care, and applies to employers with at least 15 employees. Employees may take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year, with the option to use accrued paid leave for up to six weeks, and must provide reasonable notice along with physician certification when required. The changes take effect on July 1, 2023.