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SB 322

Salaries and Benefits - As enacted, grants eligible employees leave of up to six workweeks because the employee is caring for a family member with a serious health condition. - Amends TCA Section 8-50-813.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Becky Massey

Tennessee guarantees eligible employees up to six weeks unpaid leave to care for seriously ill family members, effective January 2026.

Pub. Ch. 423
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Bill Summary · SB 322

Legislative bill overview

SB 322 amends Tennessee Code Annotated Section 8-50-813 to provide eligible employees with up to six weeks of unpaid leave to care for family members experiencing serious health conditions. The bill became effective January 1, 2026, and was signed into law by the Governor in May 2025.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses workforce needs during family health crises, potentially reducing employee turnover and financial hardship when workers must balance caregiving responsibilities with employment. It aligns Tennessee with federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protections, though the state-level guarantee may provide broader or more accessible coverage depending on implementation details.

Potential points of contention

  • Unpaid leave burden: Six weeks without pay may be insufficient for employees with limited savings, potentially forcing workers to choose between caregiving and financial survival
  • Employer cost and coverage gaps: Small employers may struggle with operational disruptions; the bill's specifics on which employees qualify and how replacements are managed remain critical implementation questions
  • Definition ambiguity: "Serious health condition" requires clear regulatory definition to prevent disputes and ensure consistent application across state agencies

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

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