An act relating to paid family and medical leave insurance

This bill creates a new Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program in Vermont that would provide paid, job-protected leave to employees and self-employed individuals for specific reasons including serious illness, childbirth, adoption, military family needs, and domestic or sexual violence situations. The program would be administered by the Office of the Treasurer and would allow workers to take time off to care for themselves or family members facing health issues, or to seek medical care, counseling, or safe housing after experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Eligible workers would need to meet certain work history requirements and pay contributions to fund the benefits, with leave defined as "safe leave" specifically for victims of abuse to access services, recover from injuries, or relocate to secure safe environments. The legislation also expands the definition of family members to include individuals with significant personal bonds regardless of biological or legal relationships, ensuring broader coverage for diverse family structures.