Alabama, Iowa lawmakers approve paid parental leave for state employees

The Alabama House has passed a bipartisan bill that provides up to eight weeks of paid parental leave for state employees and teachers, which will soon be sent to Governor Kay Ivey for her signature. The legislation grants eight weeks of maternity leave for women who give birth, experience a stillbirth, or a miscarriage after 12 weeks, while fathers will receive two weeks of leave. The bill aims to improve support for families, facilitate bonding with newborns, and help with recruitment and retention of state personnel. Currently, Alabama is one of the few states without paid parental leave for state employees, who typically rely on sick leave or unpaid time off. Supporters, including both Republican and Democratic legislators, argue this legislation reflects a commitment to pro-family policies. The bill is seen as a necessary step towards improving state employee benefits and addressing workforce needs.