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Bill Summary · HB 1017

Summary of House Bill 1017 (Act 904)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1017, now known as Act 904, aims to amend existing laws regarding paid maternity leave for public school employees in Arkansas. The bill establishes a framework for providing paid maternity leave and mandates that the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education cover the costs associated with this leave.

Key Provisions

  • Eligibility for Paid Maternity Leave:

    • Public school employees who have been employed for at least one year are eligible for up to 12 weeks of paid maternity leave.
    • The leave can be utilized for:
    • The birth of the employee's biological child.
    • The placement of an adopted child under one year of age.
    • The foster placement of an infant under one year of age.
    • Employees must not have a history of leave abuse in the year prior to the application.

  • Cost Coverage:

    • The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education is required to pay 100% of the incurred costs for approved paid maternity leave.
    • A cost-sharing agreement will be established between the state and the employing school district or charter school, ensuring that the state covers all costs.

  • Definitions:

    • The bill defines key terms such as "education personnel," "maternity leave," and "cost-sharing" to clarify the scope of the legislation.

Affected Parties

  • Public School Employees: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are female employees of public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools in Arkansas.
  • School Districts and Charter Schools: These entities will be involved in the implementation of the cost-sharing agreements and will need to comply with the new regulations regarding maternity leave.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: November 20, 2024
  • Passed: The bill was read and passed multiple times in both the House and Senate, with the final passage occurring on April 16, 2025.
  • Enactment: The bill was officially enacted and became Act 904 on April 21, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 1017 represents a significant step towards enhancing maternity leave policies for public school employees in Arkansas. By ensuring that the costs of paid maternity leave are fully covered by the state, the bill aims to support educators during a critical time in their personal lives, thereby promoting a more family-friendly work environment in the education sector.

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

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