WeVote
Log In

Bill

WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 347

Summary of SB 347 (2026 Regular Session, Kentucky)

Purpose and intent

  • SB 347 is an act relating to maternity leave. The bill proposes statutory changes intended to govern, expand, or clarify maternity leave for eligible individuals within Kentucky. While the exact text of the bill is not provided here, the title indicates a focus on Maternity Leave and related workforce protections or accommodations.

Key provisions and changes (as typically associated with maternity leave legislation)

Note: The following outlines represent common elements found in maternity leave bills. Specific provisions should be confirmed in the enrolled bill text.

  • Eligibility and scope

    • Establishes who qualifies for maternity leave (e.g., employees working for covered employers, length of service requirements, and whether individuals on medical leave related to pregnancy qualify).
    • May specify protections for both full-time and part-time workers, and potentially new hires or probationary employees, depending on the bill’s text.

  • Duration of leave

    • Sets the amount of paid or unpaid maternity leave available, possibly distinguishing between paid family/medical leave and job protection during leave.
    • Could provide for different leave lengths for pregnancy, childbirth, and recovery.

  • Pay and benefits

    • If paid leave is provided, outlines funding mechanism (employer-funded, state-funded, or a combination) and wage replacement rates.
    • Addresses maintenance of health insurance benefits during leave, including premium payments and coverage continuity.

  • Job protection and reinstatement

    • Ensures job protection upon return from maternity leave, with guaranteed reinstatement to the same or an equivalent position.
    • Prohibits discrimination or retaliation for taking maternity leave.

  • Coordinate with other leave laws

    • Clarifies interaction with federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protections, and any existing Kentucky leave statutes.
    • Addresses whether maternity leave runs concurrently with other protected leave.

  • Notice and documentation requirements

    • Requires advance notice by employees and procedural requirements for employers to administer leave.
    • Specifies documentation needed (e.g., medical certification or physician’s note) and timelines for submission.

  • Enforcement and penalties

    • Establishes enforcement mechanisms, complaint processes, and potential penalties or remedies for violations.
    • May designate a state agency responsible for enforcement.

Affected parties

  • Employees and workers in Kentucky seeking maternity leave, including those in covered employers and applicable industries.
  • Employers subject to Kentucky employment laws, particularly those with policies on leave, health benefits, and employee protections.
  • State agencies involved in enforcement, if the bill includes regulatory provisions.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduction and committee path

    • Introduced in the Kentucky Senate on March 2, 2026.
    • Referred to the Senate Committee on Committees (a procedural step in Kentucky) on the same day.

  • Next steps for passage

    • The bill would typically proceed through committee hearings, potential amendments, and floor votes in the Senate before moving to the House (and vice versa if applicable) and finally to the governor for signature or veto.

Potential impact

  • Provides a framework for maternity-related leave, potentially expanding protections and benefits for pregnant and nursing workers.
  • Aims to reduce employment discrimination and preserve income and health benefits during leave.
  • Could increase employer compliance requirements, recordkeeping, and administrative efforts.

Note: For a precise understanding of SB 347’s substantive provisions, including exact leave duration, wage replacement, eligibility, and enforcement details, the enrolled bill text and fiscal note from the Kentucky General Assembly should be consulted once available.

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

Sign in to ask a question.