WeVote

Bill

Bill

HF 674

A bill for an act providing paid leave to state employees for volunteer activities.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Larry McBurney

Bill HF 674 allows state employees to take up to 16 hours of paid leave annually for volunteer work, ensuring they retain benefits and compensation during this time.

Introduced, referred to Labor and Workforce.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HF 674

Summary of Bill HF 674

Purpose and Intent

Bill HF 674 aims to provide state employees with paid leave specifically for participating in volunteer activities. The intent is to encourage civic engagement and community service among state employees by allowing them to dedicate time to volunteer work without financial penalties or loss of benefits.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new subsection to Section 70A.1 of the Code 2025, which includes the following provisions:

  • Paid Leave for Volunteer Activities:

    • State employees may be granted up to 16 hours of paid leave per calendar year to engage in volunteer activities.
    • During this leave, employees will not lose any seniority, pay, vacation time, personal days, sick leave, insurance, health coverage benefits, or earned overtime accumulation.
  • Compensation:

    • Employees will be compensated at their regular rate of pay for the hours they are absent from work due to volunteering.
  • Workers' Compensation and Liability:

    • Employees on leave for volunteer activities will not be considered state employees for the purposes of workers’ compensation or the state tort claims Act during their time off.

Who Would Be Affected

This bill directly affects:
- State Employees: All individuals employed by the state who wish to participate in volunteer activities.
- State Agencies: Agencies may need to adjust their policies and procedures to accommodate this new leave provision.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced on February 28, 2025.
  • Current Status: It has been referred to the Labor and Workforce committee for further consideration.

Conclusion

HF 674 represents a legislative effort to promote volunteerism among state employees by providing them with paid time off to engage in community service. By ensuring that employees do not lose benefits during this time, the bill seeks to foster a culture of civic responsibility while maintaining employee rights and protections.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.