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HB 3964

State government employees; stillborn; bereavement pay; effective date.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cyndi Munson

Oklahoma bill grants state employees paid bereavement leave following stillbirth, recognizing pregnancy loss as qualifying for time off with pay.

Referred to Appropriations and Budget
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Bill Summary · HB 3964

Legislative bill overview

HB 3964 would provide state government employees with paid bereavement leave following the loss of a stillborn child. The bill establishes a new benefit category recognizing pregnancy loss as a qualifying event for time off with pay, similar to bereavement policies for other family deaths.

Why is this important

Stillbirth affects approximately 1 in 175 pregnancies and represents a significant emotional and physical event for employees and families. Currently, most state bereavement policies do not explicitly include stillborn children, potentially forcing grieving employees to use vacation or unpaid leave, or creating ambiguity about eligibility during an already traumatic period.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and budget impact: Expanding bereavement benefits increases payroll expenses for state agencies, which is why the bill was referred to the Appropriations and Budget Committee rather than passing directly
  • Definition and scope: Questions may arise about how "stillborn" is medically defined, at what gestational age the benefit applies, and whether it extends to miscarriages or other pregnancy losses
  • Precedent and equity: Some may argue this sets a precedent for recognizing other personal losses (pet deaths, estrangement) as bereavement events, or conversely, that consistency requires including miscarriages and early losses

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

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